Doug Kent has served as Gulf County's Health Department director since 1998. He was one of six candidates interviewed by Bay County officials back in November.

The position opened in May when Dr. Jason Newsom resigned over controversial messages he posted on the department's electronic sign, including "America dies on Dunkin'."

Officials say Kent's experience just across the county line will make him an effective leader in Bay County.

Health department spokesperson Julia Ruschmann said that Gulf County does "a lot of clinical services for the community, so his management experience, budget, financial kinds of experience, all of that will really be good for Bay County."

Kent's recommendation will go before the Bay County commission for final approval.