DALLAS: City leaders in El Paso have appointed Veerinder “Vinny” Taneja as their new Director of the Department of Public Health. Dr. Taneja, who resigned from a similar position in Tarrant County amid accusations of creating a "toxic and hostile work environment," will begin his new role in August 2024. Despite these allegations, investigations found no evidence of legal wrongdoing.
WFAA's news partners at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram published a report detailing a 2021 complaint made against Taneja. Sixteen current and former employees of Tarrant County's health department claimed Taneja and his assistant director, Angela Hagy, fostered a hostile work environment characterized by micromanagement and bullying. However, county investigators found no evidence that Taneja broke the law or exposed the county to discrimination lawsuits.
Dr. Taneja led Tarrant County's health department from September 2014 until his resignation in February 2024, navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His extensive background in public health includes prominent roles at the state and national levels, such as President of the Texas Association of City and County Health Officials (TACCHO).
El Paso’s Interim City Manager, Cary Westin, praised Dr. Taneja’s appointment, citing his experience and innovative approaches as key assets for the city. Dr. Taneja will succeed Dr. Hector Ocaranza, who has been the interim Director since May 2022.
Key Points:
- New Role: Dr. Veerinder “Vinny” Taneja appointed as El Paso's Public Health Director starting August 2024.
- Previous Position: Resigned as Tarrant County's Public Health Director in February 2024 after nearly a decade.
- Allegations: Accused of creating a "toxic and hostile work environment" in a 2021 complaint, detailed by WFAA's news partners at the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
- Investigation Outcome: No legal wrongdoing found, but recommended addressing leadership style issues.
- Responsibilities: Will oversee all public health programs, including vaccine records and restaurant safety standards.
Dr. Taneja’s leadership in El Paso is anticipated to bring a wealth of experience and innovative public health strategies despite past controversies. His appointment aims to strengthen community health initiatives and improve public health outcomes across the city.
Veerinder “Vinny” Taneja, former Tarrant County Public Health Director, is set to take on a similar role in El Paso, starting August 2024. Despite past accusations of poor leadership, his extensive experience in public health positions him as a valuable asset to the city’s health department.