Governor Perdue Appoints Tim Burgess Commissioner of the Department of Community Health

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue today announced that Tim Burgess will be appointed to serve as the Commissioner of the Department of Community Health (Department).

"Tim Burgess will bring extensive experience and solid leadership ability to help meet the serious health needs of the people of Georgia," said Governor Perdue. "Considering the budget outlook and the increasing health concerns of many Georgians, I am confident that he is the right person to lead this department."

"As we continue to put our permanent team in place, I want to thank Gary Redding for his service and stewardship of the Department of Community Health as Acting Commissioner," said Governor Perdue.

The Department is the lead planning agency for all health issues in the state such as health care policy, purchasing and regulation. The department is responsible for insuring nearly 2 million people, maximizing the state's health care purchasing power, planning coverage for uninsured Georgians and coordinating health planning for state agencies. The Board of Community Health sets policy and direction for the Department.

A brief biography of Tim Burgess is provided below:

Tim Burgess was appointed Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicle Safety by the Board of Motor Vehicle Safety in June 2001. From July 2000 until June 2001, he served as Chief Financial Officer for the Georgia Technology Authority. From April 1999 until July 2000, Burgess served at the University of Georgia as Associate Vice President for Finance and Administration. Burgess began his professional career in the Governor's Office of Planning and Budget in 1979. In August 1995, he was appointed Director of the Office of Planning and Budget by Governor Zell Miller. He served in this capacity until April 1999. Burgess received his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Georgia and a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Georgia State University. He was born in Albany, Georgia on July 23, 1955 and currently resides in Watkinsville with his wife Carla.