A Montgomery County health official who has led the local response to COVID-19 will resign.
Health Officer Dr. Travis Gayles announced early Wednesday that he will leave his position on Sept. 12. He did not provide a reason.
“I have enjoyed the opportunity to serve the residents of Montgomery County for the past 4 years, including through the past 18 months related to Covid-19. It has been an honor to work alongside you all and provide health related guidance across a host of important issues,” Gayles wrote in a letter to County Executive Marc Elrich and the Montgomery County Council.
Gayles became a familiar face to many county residents as he regularly addressed the public during the pandemic, describing the science behind lockdowns, mask mandates and school rules.
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Local health officials across the country have faced high scrutiny for their handling of the coronavirus crisis.
Stay with NBC Washington for more details on this developing story.
