The two unions representing the vast majority of workers at SRHD also released and sent a letter to Clark and the board members on Tuesday. Professional and Technical Employees Local 17 and the Washington State Nurses Association leaders said their members do not understand the Board’s decision to ask for Lutz’s resignation, calling for a public meeting to understand Clark’s actions.
“We need a unified leadership team at SRHD, especially going into the winter months when the COVID-19 crisis is expected to become much worse. Dr. Lutz greatly contributes to that unified team, and we stand behind his excellent leadership,” the union letter says.
“We urge the Spokane Regional Health District Administrator, Amelia Clark, and the Board of Health to reconsider their decision, and carefully evaluate the far-reaching repercussions of forcing Dr. Lutz out of his position. Public health staff need strong leadership right now, and we firmly believe we have that in Dr. Lutz.”