Logan County District Board of Health members honored Environmental Health Director Matt Stonerock and his “remarkable 30 years of service in public health” during their recent board meeting.
Stonerock, formerly the LCHD’s safety and sanitation coordinator, recently was promoted to his current position following the retirement of Tim Smith in April.
The 30-year honoree began his career with the health district as an intern, demonstrating a passion for environmental health that quickly set him apart, Health Commissioner Travis Irvan said.
“Over the three decades that have followed, he has become an indispensable member of our team, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of public health in our community.”
As environmental health director, Stonerock has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at ensuring the health and safety of local residents, Irvan noted.
“His expertise in identifying and mitigating environmental risks has been instrumental in safeguarding our community from a variety of threats, ranging from air and water quality concerns to food safety issues.
“One of Mr. Stonerock’s many strengths lies in his ability to forge strong partnerships with local stakeholders, businesses, and community members. These collaborations have not only enhanced the effectiveness of our environmental health programs but have also contributed to the overall well-being ot our community.”
Beyond his technical expertise, Stonerock is also known for his commitment to mentoring the next generation of environmental health professionals.
“Many who started under his guidance have gone on to make signiticant contributions to public health, a testament to his leadership and commitment to knowledge sharing,” the health commissioner said.
In addition to his professional achievements, officials noted that Stonerock is admired for his exceptional work ethic, humility and approachability. Colleagues often describe him as a source of inspiration, someone who leads by example and is always ready to lend a helping hand.
Also at the meeting, the board honored another individual who has made a lasting impact on the department, observing a moment of silence for the late Dr. William Verbsky. He passed away Dec. 6.
For three decades, Dr. Verbsky served as the Logan County Health Commissioner, pioneering a path as the first veterinarian in Ohio to take on this crucial role. His leadership spanned a transformative era of 30 years, “creating the blueprint for how future leaders should champion a safe and healthy community,” LCHD officials said in a recent Facebook post.
“As health commissioner, Dr. Verbsky’s impact was profound. He navigated the complexities of public health with grace, overseeing vital health levies and orchestrating the relocation of the Logan County Health District three times.
“The district now stands as a testament to his vision at 310 S. Main St., in Bellefontaine.”
In 1970, Dr. Verbsky and his wife built Southgate Veterinary Medicine. Beyond his administrative duties, Bill maintained a close bond with his alma mater, OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.
While serving as the county health commissioner, he also took on the role of an adjunct professor, imparting his knowledge to fourth-year vet students on matters of public health.
The OSU College of Veterinary Medicine and its Alumni Association recognized Dr. Verbsky’s outstanding contributions with multiple Distinguished Alumnae awards.
In environmental health matters, the board conducted a public hearing for the updated 2024 Environmental Health fees. No one attended the hearing,
Then the board passed the third and final reading of the fees resolution, which includes changes to fees for private water systems, food service, private sewage systems, RV parks recreation camps and combined park/camps, tattoo and body piercing, plumbing and commercial plan review.
Most of the fees have not been revised in a number of years, the health commissioner said.
In nursing matters, the health district is hosting COVID and flu vaccine clinics from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, with walk-ins welcome.
However, the vaccine clinics will be closed next week on Dec. 26 and 28.
The next board meeting is 1 p.m. Jan. 10.
