Bobbi Lock was appointed earlier this month to lead the Montezuma County Health Department.

“I am very excited for this opportunity to serve Montezuma County in this capacity,” said Lock.

Employed at the health department for the last 23 years, Lock first joined the agency as a home health nurse. She’s also served in the immunization clinic, well child clinics and HIV counseling. In 2007, she was appointed to lead the nurse family partnership.

“My goal is to provide Montezuma County with the best possible public health department that we can and make a difference in the health and well-being of our community,” Lock said.

According to County Administrator Melissa Brunner, a total of four candidates were interviewed for the post, but Lock was ultimately recommended for the position.

County commissioners approved Lock’s appointment pending an exemption from state officials for not having an advanced degree.

Lock had served as interim director of the health department since March, following the resignation of Lori Cooper, who pleaded guilty to a DUI case.

According to Brunner, Cooper earned nearly $73,000 annually as health director.

tbaker@cortezjournal.com