Community leaders and stakeholders are part of the interview process to hire a new leader for the troubled Department of Family and Protective Services.
Thomas Chapmond in May announced plans to retire at the end of October.
Former Judge Scott McCown with the Center for Public Policy Priorities says it's the first time groups like his have been asked to participate in the process. The input goes to Health and Human Services Commissioner Albert Hawkins, who'll select the new commissioner.
Chapmond's departure comes as two of the agencies the department oversees, Adult Protective Services and Child Protective Services, are facing criticism.
Officials received 44 applications for Chapmond's job. Among those interviewed yesterday was Carey Cockrell of Bedford, who's director of the Tarrant County Juvenile Services.
---
On the Net:
http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us
http://www.cppp.org
