Former Whatcom County Health Director begins new role for state agency

Erika Lautenbach has assumed the role of Chief Administrative Officer for the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families. In her new position, she oversees the department's Administrative Team, which includes the Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, and Human Resources head. Previously, Lautenbach was terminated from her role as Whatcom County Health Director in March amid a leadership dispute with County Executive Satpal Sidhu. She claimed that her termination occurred while she was negotiating a separation agreement. Sidhu indicated that he sought new leadership to better reflect the changing priorities of his office.

Following Lautenbach's exit, the County Council appointed Dr. Charlene Ramont as interim Medical Director for Whatcom County. The process for finding a permanent replacement for this role is actively underway. Lautenbach's experience and leadership will be pivotal in her new state role, impacting child and family services across Washington.