Former health commissioner Dr. Michael Mendoza signed NDA with Monroe County

Dr. Michael Mendoza, the former Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health, signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) upon his sudden resignation, prohibiting any discussion regarding the specifics of his departure. Serving since 2016, including through the COVID-19 pandemic, Mendoza resigned in March 2024, shortly after his reappointment in August 2022. The terms of the NDA prevent Mendoza from revealing any information related to his employment and from taking legal action against the county. Monroe County officials are limited to responses outlined in their initial press release about his resignation. Local legislators, concerned by the implications of the NDA, have proposed forming a special committee to investigate further, suggesting that the agreement could obstruct valuable public health insights Mendoza possesses from his tenure, particularly regarding the pandemic response. The agreement also restricts Mendoza’s access to county facilities without prior notice. Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mareilena Velez de Brown has been appointed as acting commissioner following Mendoza’s exit.

Source: Rochester First