HOUSTON – The Harris County Executive Office has announced the decision to fire Barbie Robinson from her role as Harris County Executive Director of Public Health.
Robinson was selected to head the district health department in March 2021. She came to the Houston area from Sonoma County, California, where she was a principal regional ministry of health for four years.
Previously, Robinson worked at the Centers for Medicare & Medical Services and the San Francisco Division of Financial Management & Fee-for-Service Operations.
Deputy County Administrator Leah Barton will now take over as interim executive director of Harris County Public Health. HCPH has launched a national search for a new executive director.
“Our goal remains to serve the people of Harris County consistent with our countywide goals and guiding principles. I appreciate the hard work of our Harris County Public Health team and their continued commitment during this transition,” said Diana Ramirez, Harris County Administrator.
Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey of Precinct 3 joined the KPRC 2 investigation and called the move a shooting. Ramsey has made it clear that he has had concerns for some time.
“For over two years I have expressed concerns about the hiring of a Northern California consultant, Dem. That is why I did not support any proposals to hire or pay Dema,” Ramsey said.
Ramsey believes the termination now requires further review by county commissioners.
“We will have to do a complete audit of the health department and the contracts. Transparency and the use of judgment are important when hiring government contractors,” he said.
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