Whatcom County names new director of Health and Community Services

Whatcom County appointed Champ Thomaskutty as the new director of Health and Community Services, effective at the end of October, pending county council confirmation. Thomaskutty has served as deputy health officer for the Calvert County Health Department in Maryland since 2017, bringing valuable experience to the role. “I am excited to come to Whatcom County and continue my lifelong mission of improving health outcomes for all,” he stated. His appointment follows the firing of former director Erika Lautenbach in March, who filed a tort claim seeking $1. 5 million for wrongful termination.

Former assistant director Charlene Ramont has been serving as interim director since Lautenbach's departure. Executive Sidhu praised Thomaskutty's leadership experience and commitment to public health as vital for the community. The new director plans to work closely with the department team and local health leaders to build on existing successes. This leadership change comes at a critical time for public health initiatives in the region.