Rockland's health agent resigns following investigation into inspections

ROCKLAND, Mass. — Rockland’s heath agent resigned following an investigation into the town’s compliance with performing inspections in food establishments in a timely and/or consistent manner.

According to Selectmen Mike O’Loughlin, Board of Health member Scott Margolis informed Town Administrator Marcie Birmingham and Human Resources Director Stacy Callahan of the matter on Wednesday.

Birmingham immediately contacted the town’s attorneys.

Following an investigation Thursday morning by Birmingham, Callahan and the town’s attorneys, Health Agent Janice McCarthy resigned.

Boston 25 News reviewed McCarthy’s contact, which showed she was first appointed on January 1, 2001. Her current contact was to expire on December 31, 2018.

Under the supervision of the Board of Health, McCarthy was responsible for oversight and direction of all employees in the health department, including administrative staff and recycling center workers.

By signing the contact, McCarthy agreed to perform her duties “in a timely and efficient manner consistent with applicable professional standards.”

McCarthy was earning an annual salary of $75,627.17 and a monthly car allowance of $250. She got five weeks paid vacation, twelve sick days, twelve paid holidays and four emergency and personal days.

Birmingham and Callahan are working with the Board of Health and their staff to take immediate action and bring the town into compliance with regard to inspections of food establishments.

Cox Media Group