After 22 years of public health service in Lucas County, the last seven as Health Commissioner, Dr. Eric Zgodzinski announced plans to retire June 1, 2023.

The announcement was made at the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department’s Board of Health meeting on Thursday morning.

Dr. Zgodzinski was appointed Health Commissioner of Lucas County in June 2016. During his tenure, he helped lead successful responses to numerous disease outbreaks – including the H1N1 influenza pandemic, hepatitis A and norovirus outbreaks; he oversaw the agency’s effort to achieve national accreditation, and he helped establish collaborative partnerships across sectors to combat the local opioid and drug crisis. Most recently, he has been the face and voice of the agency’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m beyond grateful to have worked with such dedicated staff and will greatly miss seeing the good work they do for our community,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Zgodzinski. “Lucas County residents should feel confident in the ability of our staff to continue to make a healthier Lucas County for everyone.”

In response to Dr. Zgodzinski’s announcement, Board of Health President Paul Komisarek said, “We are very thankful for Dr. Zgodzinski’s time and service to this community. He has accomplished so much during his time with the TLCHD, especially in his years as Health Commissioner. We wish Eric nothing but the best in his retirement, and we are confident that the Board of Health and the department are in good hands with our talented and dedicated staff, while we search for the next Health Commissioner.”

The process to hire the next Health Commissioner will begin immediately, and will be led by the Board of Health in coordination with the Health Department’s Human Resources department.