Barnstable County Commissioners have authorized the appointment of James Gardiner to become director of the Department of Health and Environment.
Gardiner is replacing Sean O'Brien, who retired last summer after nearly four decades of service.
The commissioners say Gardiner has an extensive background in public health having worked as the public health director for the Town of Yarmouth and for Worcester Health and Human Services.
Gardiner is set to begin his role in March.
(Photo by DIRK WAEM/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: DIRK WAEM / AFP / Getty Images