Darien Hires New Director Of Health

DARIEN, CT — Darien has hired a new director of health, according to the town's most recent bi-weekly newsletter to the community.

Mindy Chambrelli takes over for David Knauf, who announced his retirement last December.

"Throughout her extensive career in the field of public health, Mindy has demonstrated a deep commitment to community health and safety, as well as to the protection of our environment," the town said in the community newsletter.

"Mindy is extremely well respected among her peers, and has been a source for many seeking resources and collaboration in promoting public and environmental health," the town added. "Here in Darien, Mindy has played a large role in keeping the residents of Darien safe, through her inspections of local restaurants and other establishments, as well as keeping them informed, through her public health education campaigns."

The town noted that Chambrelli has participated in several Connecticut health action committees and organizations, such as the Connecticut Environmental Health Association (CEHA), where she served as president from 2019 to 2020.

Additionally, Chambrelli was named CT Sanitarian of the Year in 2020, and received the CEHA PResidential Merit Award in 2023.

Knauf announced last December that he planned to retire at the end of the fiscal year, which concluded on June 30, 2024.

First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky at the time praised Knauf for his years of service to the town.

"He's retiring after committing himself to the town and helping us in this very important capacity. I wish him well in his retirement," Zagrodzky said. "I can speak for everyone, we're certainly appreciative of his service to the town, and wish him well as he begins whatever his next chapter is."

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