By Cecilia Nasmith

The Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit Board of Health has announced its board members for the 2023-2026 term.

Port Hope Mayor Olena Hankivsky has been appointed Vice-chair, serving under provincial appointee and new board Chair David Marshall.

The board consists of elected officials from its three funding municipalities – the County of Haliburton and City of Kawartha Lakes, in addition to Northumbelrand County – as well as provincial appointees. For the new term,

Northumberland is returning Bob Crate and sending newly elected John Logel. They will join Tracy Richardson and Mike Perry of the City of Kawartha Lakes, as well as a delegate from Haliburton County yet to be announced.

The Board of Health ensures that the health unit's strategic, business and operational plans, policies and activities are consistent with policy directions communicated by the Minister of Health.

On behalf of the board, Medical Officer of Health and HKPR Chief Executive Officer Dr. Natalie Bocking manages the delivery of public health programs and services in accordance with the health unit's mission, vision and values.

Marshall's original appointment to the board was made in 2021 by the Lieutenant Governor through a recommendation by the Minister of Health when he applied to the Public Appointments Secretariat. He served as Interim Chair from September until this month, and was officially appointed to the Chair position at this board's first meeting on Jan. 19.

Marshall said that strengthening partnerships with local community agencies and municipalities will be a board focus this term.

“We will work together to increase the awareness of the role of public health and the programs and services provided within the HKPR district areas, so we can work together to improve the health of our communities,” he said in the press release.

“With the support and leadership of our Board of Health, we remain committed to addressing health inequities focusing on client-centred approach to program and service accessibility,” Dr,. Bocking commented.

“We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively and efficiently to serve the health priorities of our community.”