COVID-19 health strategies In Kane County will have new leadership

Kane County Health Department Executive Director Barbara Jeffers, who is leaving office December 1.

KANE COUNTY – Kane County Health Department Executive Director Barbara Jeffers is sounding very positive of her staff, encouraging them to continue as they have demonstrated the health and safety of Kane County residents.

In announcing her retirement effective December 1, Jeffers said, “Their performance during the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed how essential their work is to the betterment and survival of Kane County.”

As the number of COVID-19 cases continues increasing, the staff at the Kane County Health Department recognizes Jeffers eight-and-a-half years as executive director and in total 15 years at the health department. Jeffers has led the county through the past eight months of handling COVID-19 related risks and education.

Jeffers submitted a letter this month announcing her retirement.

“During my tenure as the Executive Director, I dutifully led our staff as we guided and supported residents of Kane County through a significant TB outbreak, Ebola, Zika, and now COVID-19 while maintaining a balanced budget annually,” Jeffers said.   Jeffers also thanked outgoing Kane County Board Chairman Chris Lauzen for granting her the opportunity to serve more 532,000 residents in Kane County.

The highlight of Jeffers career is when the Kane County Health Department twice received national accreditation. The Kane County Health Department became the first county health department in Illinois to achieve national accreditation.

In her closing words, Jeffers said, “I will miss all those who I have encountered during my tenure and know my work continues in spirit. Now is the time for me to blaze the retirement trail with vigor.”