AUGUSTA – The LePage administration announced more staff changes and consolidation at the Department of Health and Human Services this morning, as several top political appointees from previous administrations were fired.

Effective yesterday, four top officials were let go by DHHS Commissioner Mary Mayhew: Ron Welch and Jon Chamberlain from the Office of Adult Mental Health Services, Diana Scully of the Office of Elder Services and Jane Gallivan from the Office of Adults with Cognitive and Physical Disabilities Services.

Two current DHHS workers will replace the outgoing directors. 

Guy Cousins, who currently serves as the director of the Office of Substance Abuse, will additionally take over as acting director of the Office of Adult Mental Health Services, according to a release. Ricker Hamilton, a staffer from the Office of Elder Services, will serve as director of the Office of Elder Services and as acting director of the Office of Adults with Physical and Cognitive Disabilities Services.

“These changes continue the assembly of a new leadership team at DHHS as part of the new administration,” said Mayhew in a release. “The primary goal remains meeting the needs of Maine people within existing resources through a system that is more integrated, efficient and cost-effective.”

Mayhew added that she appreciates and respects the leadership provided by the outgoing directors.

Other top DHHS officials, also political appointees, were removed and replaced earlier this year.