THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, May 23, 1995 TAG: 9505230305
SECTION: LOCAL PAGE: B3 EDITION: NORTH CAROLINA
DATELINE: MANTEO LENGTH: Short : 35 lines
The director of the Dare County Department of Health has announced that he is planning to retire next April. Harry Johnson, 59, said the timing of the announcement was designed to give the health board ample time to search for his successor.
County spokesman Charles Hartig said the health board will move quickly to find Johnson's replacement.
``The board members will meet in July to formulate a strategy and establish a search committee,'' Hartig said. ``The board will make sure that the transition is conducted in an orderly and professional manner.''
Johnson joined the county as health director in May 1982 after a 21-year career in the U.S. Army Medical Department. He retired as a lieutenant colonel.
``I became the health director right before the county's period of rapid growth,'' Johnson said. ``The primary focus was on environmental health. It was a very busy time for us.''
County manager Terry Wheeler said Johnson has made a valuable contribution to the county.
Johnson said he decided to retire when he turns 60 to spend more time with his wife. Johnson said that he will remain in Dare County, and spend his retirement years traveling and playing golf.
``I've enjoyed every minute as health director,'' Johnson said. ``It's been a pleasurable experience.'' by CNB