OBSERVER Photo by Gregory Bacon Christine Schuyler, outgoing public health director and commissioner of Social Services, speaks during the Chautauqua County Legislature meeting.

It was an awkward evening to say the least.

County Executive PJ Wendel issued a commendation to Christine Schuyler, public health director and commissioner of Social Services, during this week’s Chautauqua County Legislature meeting. He spoke of how Schuyler began her career in county government 14 years ago as the public health director. Three years later she added the title of commissioner of Social Services.

“Throughout her tenure, Schuyler has upheld the department’s mission of building a healthy, safe and strong community, promoting the health of all county residents and providing essential human services,” he said.

Wendel continued on, sharing Schuyler’s leadership during the H1N1 and COVID-19 pandemics. He noted how she championed education, tackled issues like childhood lead poisoning, mental health and substance abuse.

“She has worked tirelessly, dedicated to serving the residents of Chautauqua County,” Wendel said. But as Wendel read the commendation, which was signed by Legislature Chairman Pierre Chagnon and himself, Schuyler was not at the front by his side.

Instead, she remained in the back of the Legislature Chambers sitting with her husband and colleagues.

Normally when commendations are issued the receiver stands up front with the county leaders. After Wendel read the Commendation, he walked back and handed it to her.

Next, Legislator Susan Parker, D-Fredonia, who is a registered nurse, shared her own Commendation. “The people of Chautauqua County benefited greatly from your leadership and hard work. Best wishes to you Ms. Schuyler and more thanks to your leadership than I could possibly convey,” she said.

After the commendations, Schuyler took to the microphone in the back of the room, confirming that her departure was not her idea. “While this ending is not what I had planned, I need to look forward to the future,” she said. Schuyler praised former County Executives Greg Edwards and Vince Horrigan, as well as former Health Director Dr. Robert Berke. She also thanked a number of her colleagues as well as various agencies she worked with over the last 14 years.

“What amazing people we have here in this county,” she said.

Schuyler noted that during her time she did all she could to improve the health and well being of county residents. She finished by saying she wished everyone the best.

“I am forever grateful,” she said. The health director’s appointment is made by the county executive. Two days before the legislature meeting, Wendel issued a news release saying that he was not going to bring Schuyler back.

“Christine’s current term expires at the end of this month and I have made the decision to not re-appoint her to another five-year term, and move in a different direction with the structure of the county’s delivery of human services. I appreciate Christine’s service and dedication to the residents of Chautauqua County during her 14-year tenure with the County and I wish her all the best with her future endeavors,” he said.

Wendel has not commented beyond his statement as to why he decided to not keep Schuyler as a department head.

Schuyler’s last day on the job is Nov. 29.