The board of directors of the Health District of Northern Larimer County has appointed Lee Thielen interim executive director, effective November 10, 2022.

Ms. Thielen has an extensive background in public administration, public health, and with the Larimer County health services community. Among other positions, Ms. Thielen served as executive director of the Colorado Association of Local Public Health Officials and the Public Health Alliance of Colorado, as well as associate director of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment from 1984 to 2000. Notably, she was appointed by former Colorado governor Roy Romer to serve as interim state budget director, providing leadership to the office during the budget season while the governor selected a politically appointed permanent director. Ms. Thielen has served as the president of the Larimer County Board of Health and as secretary for the Health District of Northern Larimer County board of directors.

Robert Williams, who was hired as executive director April 11 of this year, submitted his resignation, effective Nov. 7. The board recognizes and thanks Mr. Williams for his service to the Health District over the past several months. The board also wishes to express its deep appreciation and thanks to Karen Spink, deputy director of the Health District, who stepped into the role of acting executive director over the past several weeks.

Ms. Thielen will serve as the interim executive director for a six-month term while the Health District board undertakes a search for a candidate to fill the position permanently.

The Health District is a special district that provides residents of northern Larimer County with dental, mental health, preventive health, and advance care planning services, in addition to connecting people to more affordable health insurance and prescription options.