SCHENECTADY — Schenectady County’s Public Health director is out.

Public Health Director Lisa A. Ayers’ last day of work was on Aug. 14, a county spokeswoman confirmed Tuesday.

While the spokeswoman confirmed Ayers’ departure, the spokeswoman declined to provide additional information.

“At this time we have no further comment on this personnel matter,” said spokeswoman Erin Roberts.

As county public director, Ayers was tasked with leading the county’s public health response during the COVID-19 pandemic, which is ongoing. 

Ayers didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on Tuesday.  

While the infection rate in New York state is among the lowest in the nation, officials fear a resurgence this fall.

Schenectady County did not make a formal announcement, and the Daily Gazette learned of the change in leadership after obtaining a letter to city workers outlining COVID quarantine guidance signed by Keith Brown, who is listed as interim public health director. 

County legislators appeared to be caught off-guard.

Reached by phone on Tuesday morning, Michelle Ostrelich, chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, appeared unaware.

“I’m going to need to get some more information on that,” Ostrelich said.

Ostrelich confirmed Brown has been tapped as interim public health director, but declined further comment, citing personnel issues.

“I don’t want people to worry,” Ostrelich said. “I have complete faith in our public health department.”

Osterlich said she was unclear on the process for hiring a new director.