Clackamas County Board Chair Tootie Smith suffered a minor heart attack on May 28, interrupting her attendance at critical budget committee meetings during a pivotal time. Revealing the health scare in an unembellished statement posted on the county's official website, Smith assured constituents that she was in overall good health, crediting timely medical intervention and a procedure she underwent to resolve the cardiac issue. The heart attack caught, thanks to Smith's quick response, is now being addressed with the advised rest and recovery. 

During Smith's mandated period of convalescence, Vice Chair Ben West takes the helm to direct Board meetings. Smith, committed to her role even in the light of personal health challenges, stated on Clackamas County's news website, "In my absence, Vice Chair Ben West will chair Board meetings. I will receive regular updates on County business throughout my recovery. Regrettably, I was unable to participate in the County's annual budget committee meetings last week. I am very pleased with the decisions and outcomes of my colleagues and budget committee members. I look forward to returning to the office very soon to continue the County's important work." 

In the meantime, the County agenda moves forward under the watchful eye of Vice Chair West and the stable continuity of operations seems assured.