Adams County Board of Commissioners (BoCC) Recognizes National Public Health Week

Following a visit to the Adams County Health Department (ACHD), the Adams County BoCC issued a proclamation commemorating National Public Health Week (PDF) at their Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 8.  

Board members shared their excitement to join in highlighting the health department’s work, from disease prevention and maternal-child health to food safety and clean air and water, and so much more. They were especially impressed by how much the team has accomplished in just a few short years, with the department only in its third year.

“Public Health is often not seen, because it really is invisible until there is a crisis, a pandemic, or an outbreak,” said Levon Hupfer, Deputy Director of the ACHD, who spoke on behalf of the department at Public Hearing. “And when there is a crisis, then public health staff rise, champion, and heal.”

Hupfer went on to thank the board for their ongoing support of and belief in the staff of the Health Department. He credited the commissioners with giving the right tools to the right people to help protect Adams County’s residents and environment.  

Commissioner Julie Duran Mullica, Vice Chair of the BoCC, has a background in public health and previously served on the Board of Health for the former Tri-County Health Department. She expressed gratitude to the numerous public health professionals at the meeting for the impact they have on the Adams County community.

“I’m really proud of the work you all do,” Mullica said. “We have an amazing team here at Adams County. Public Health is needed—on so many different levels—especially in times of crisis.”

Commissioner Lynn Baca, Chair of the BoCC, encouraged all county departments, as well as organizations and businesses around the community, to invite the board for tours, visits, or conversations, because of how deeply meaningful they are.  

“Invite us to be a part of your work,” Baca said. “Part of my great joy as a county commissioner is meeting with people who are really passionate about their work.”

Then, turning her attention to the public health team in the room, Baca listed off some of the many services the Health Department provides, and how through their deep commitment to care, they’ve won the love of this community. She closed with, “Thank you for loving them back."