Public Health Director Charles Chima is out. What happens next?

Simplified: Public Health Director Charles Chima has resigned, city officials confirmed. His last day on the job was Monday. Here's what we know so far.

Why it matters

• Chima was appointed by Mayor Paul TenHaken in April 2021, approved by City Council and started work in June. He replaced former Public Health Director Jill Franken, who retired in April 2021 after two decades leading the city health department.
• City officials won't say why Chima resigned, and TenHaken has declined comment. City Human Resources Director Bill O'Toole sent the following statement and declined to answer further questions.

"Chima submitted his resignation, and his last active day at work was June 12, 2023," O'Toole stated.

What happens next?

It'll be up to TenHaken to appoint the next public health director, which will then need to be approved by the City Council.

City officials would not say who will be leading the department in the meantime.

City Council members said they have not been told much about the circumstances surrounding Chima's resignation – just that it was his choice and that it was without much notice.

"I want to wish him the best," Councilor Sarah Cole said.

"I enjoyed the opportunities I had to work with him," Councilor Rich Merkouris said.