Dartmouth Taps Veteran Inspector to Take Over Health Department

Veteran Dartmouth Health Inspector Christopher Michaud was appointed to replace outgoing Health Director Wendy Henderson last night. Michaud has worked for the Town of Dartmouth since 1995, something Board of Health Chairwoman Leslie McKinley said is a major asset ...

Dartmouth currently faces a number of serious health issues such as new lodging regulations that are about to take effect and more.

Michaud lives in Westport and graduated from Bridgewater State College before working for Dartmouth. The other finalist for the position was Seekonk health agent Beth Hallal.

In a quirk of Dartmouth's governing structure, the Board of Health appointed Michaud, but his salary must now be negotiated by the Select Board. Some Select Board members voiced concerns Monday over Henderson's $91,000 salary, saying it was above-average for a health director position. Select Board Chairman Michael P. Watson said he would like to see Michaud's salary closer to $80,000 per year. McKinley said she disagrees, but is confident a fair salary will be worked out.