Lexington has appointed Dr. Steve Davis as the interim chief administrative officer of the Lexington-Fayette County Board of Health. His appointment was announced on Monday, following a Friday email to health department staff. Dr. Davis, who has 48 years of medical experience, will oversee day-to-day operations while the board searches for a permanent leader.
The decision to appoint Dr. Davis was made by Majd Jabbour, the chairman of the board, who stated that he believed he had the authority to make a temporary appointment. However, the board’s by-laws indicate that the Board of Health is responsible for appointing a commissioner or acting commissioner, meaning Jabbour’s unilateral decision could be contentious.
Dr. Davis commenced his role on Monday before the formal vote occurred later that evening. He previously served as the medical director of the department and emphasized that he continued his duties as medical director while transitioning to the interim administrative position. “I’m honored by the trust the board put in me and by the amount of support the health department staff have provided already this week,” said Dr. Davis.
He replaces Jack Cornett, who resigned unexpectedly in late September. The health department, which operates with a $27 million annual budget and employs 170 staff, has faced challenges in leadership transition since 2021. Previous directors have included Dr. Joel McCullough, who resigned in July 2022, and Dr. Sheila Owens-Collins, who was appointed in January 2023 but was terminated by April.
The Lexington-Fayette County Health Department plays a critical role in public health initiatives, including COVID-19 response efforts, restaurant inspections, and maternal health programs. The board of health, which is appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council, is actively searching for a permanent chief administrative officer, with hopes to finalize an appointment by early January 2025.
Dr. Davis, originally from Pike County and a graduate of the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the board and staff over the next few months. “I want to thank you for your confidence,” he remarked during his first day.
