Easley, Michael. Press Release, 2007-05-18, Gov. Easley Taps Benton To Head Health And Human Services; Dempsey Benton Will Address Accountability And Effectiveness Of Mental Health System As Top Task

Michael F. Easley Governor State of North Carolina Office of the Governor For Release: IMMEDIATE Contact: Seth Effron Date: May 18, 2007 Phone: 919/733-5612 GOV. EASLEY TAPS BENTON TO HEAD HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Dempsey Benton Will Address Accountability and Effectiveness of Mental Health System as Top Task RALEIGH - Gov. Mike Easley announced today that Dempsey Benton will become the next Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. He will succeed current Secretary Cannen Hooker Odom, who is leaving at the end of the legislative session to become president of the Milbank Memorial Fund. “Dempsey brings to the Department of Health and Human Services extraordinary managerial and leadership expertise that has already served the state and the city of Raleigh so well,” said Easley. “His thoughtful style will ensure that the Department continues to effectively serve our citizens.” Benton, 62, served as chief deputy secretary of the state Environment and Natural Resources Department from 2001 until this January. Most recently, Benton helped lead the governor’s special Hazardous Materials Task Force created following the October 2006 fire at the EQ warehouse in Apex. As a result of Benton’s work and leadership, the governor adopted several of the task force’s recommendations and the General Assembly is in the process of enacting the rest. Easley said he wants Benton to take a similar approach in immediately further enhancing the accountability and effectiveness of mental health services for those in need while also identifying any necessary long-term structural adjustments to be made through changes in the law. The General Assembly initiated a comprehensive reform involving the privatization of mental health services throughout the state. Easley has expressed serious concerns regarding the accountability and effectiveness of a number of changes in the system. The Department has already taken steps to address abuses in the community support program. The Health and Human Services Department has a total budget of SI 3.7 billion in state and federal funds. The secretary’s salary is set by N.C statute at SI 12,637 annually. Benton served as Raleigh City Manager from 1983 to 2000 and as the city’s assistant manager from 1974 to 1983. Before moving to Raleigh, he served as city manager in Elizabeth City and administrative assistant to the finance director in Rocky Mount. Governor's Press Office State Capitol, Raleigh, NC 27603-8001 (919) 733-5612 - Toll Free 1-800-662-7005 FAX (919) 733-5166