McKinney Nominated for State Board of Health

Yakima and Eastern Washington remains under phase 1 of the state's reopening plan. The Yakima County Commissioners continue to push Governor Jay Inslee to open up Eastern and Central Washington in phase 2. As that work continues Yakima County may soon have a voice on the Washington State Board of Health. The Board of Directors of the Washington State Association of Counties has formally nominated Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney on behalf of Washington State Association of Counties for consideration and appointment to the State Board of Health. Local officials say having a voice on the Washington State Board of Health could help the area open up more because McKinney could explain and possibly help the board understand the unique circumstances facing Eastern and Central Washington State.

A press release says McKinney is ready to go to work. "The residents of Yakima County and Eastern Washington are incredibly diverse, with lifestyles and work environments that bring unique perspective to statewide conversations. It is an honor to be nominated to serve as an advocate for the public health needs of our residents and those with similar needs across the state" Yakima County Commissioner Amanda McKinney is one of five nominees being considered for the State Board of Health.  The other nominees are Pierce County Council member Marty Campbell, Clark County Councilor Temple Lentz, Lewis County Commissioner Lindsey Pollock, and Walla Walla County Commissioner Greg Tompkins. Only one candidate will be appointed by the Governor for this position. The Washington State Board of health was created by the state legislature in May 1989. The agency was created after state officials decided to split from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.