Melrose-Wakefield Health Department Gets Interim Leader

MELROSE, MA — Elaine Silva, the chair of the Wakefield Board of Health, is serving as interim director of the health department shared by Melrose and Wakefield.

Silva, a nurse and member of Wakefield's Board of Health since 2009, will fill the role until a permanent director is hired.

Longtime Health Director Ruth Clay retired at the end of May after leading the joint health department through the COVID-19 pandemic for well over a year.

"The last year has demonstrated how critical the role of health director is," Melrose Mayor Paul Brodeur said. "Having Elaine step in while we take the time we need to hire our next health director is a huge help. With her experience as Everett’s health director, our department won’t miss a beat and we are so grateful for her willingness to take over on an interim basis."

Wakefield Town Administrator echoed Brodeur's remarks.

"For the last 11 years, Elaine has made a tremendous impact to the Wakefield community as a member of our Board of Health," Maio said. "I’m particularly impressed by her work in the community increasing and improving mental health and substance use resources. Elaine has tremendous professional experience and an existing relationship with our staff, and I have full confidence that the department will continue to excel under her leadership."

Silva in 2019 retired as public health director and nursing supervisor for the City of Everett

Silva must resign from her Board of Health position as she serves in the interim capacity. The Wakefield Town Council and Board of Health will appoint someone to fill her seat, which expires next April.

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Mike Carraggi can be reached at mike.carraggi@patch.com. Follow him on Twitter @PatchCarraggi. Subscribe to Melrose Patch or Wakefield Patch for free local news and alerts.