Belmont County’s public health system is in good hands with the appointment of Robert Sproul as the county’s new health commissioner. A longtime resident of Belmont County, Sproul brings both experience and commitment to a role that touches the lives of every resident.

After serving for years as the county’s deputy health commissioner, Sproul now steps into the top position with full authority to oversee administrative operations, environmental health initiatives, public health programs and regulatory compliance. This transition reflects both his professional growth and the county’s confidence in his public health leadership.

Sproul replaces Dr. Renato Dela Cruz, who will continue to serve as the department’s medical director. That continuity means the county benefits from both Sproul’s hands-on experience and Dela Cruz’s medical expertise. It’s a partnership that will keep Belmont County’s public health efforts strong and well-coordinated.

Dela Cruz, as medical director, will provide medical oversight, clinical guidance, and expert consultation on public health matters, including communicable disease control, health policy, and community health planning. This is an important role particularly given the increased level of infectious disease — measles is one example –being seen around the state and the nation.

For Sproul, his recent completion of a master’s degree in public administration underscores his dedication to the role.

And as someone who grew up in Belmont County, Sproul brings a deep personal investment in the community’s well-being.

His enthusiasm for the upcoming new health department building reflects his forward-looking vision.

A larger, more functional space will not only ease current operational constraints but also allow for expanded community engagement, health events and partnerships such as the recent collaboration with Labcorp.

These are meaningful steps that will make public health services more accessible to residents.

“We don’t have enough space for the people that we have, let alone to do anything more for the community. So again, that’s going to be nice there,” Sproul said.

Belmont County’s Board of Health made a sound decision in elevating someone with local roots and proven ability. As Sproul himself put it, he simply wants to help improve the health of all Belmont County residents.

That’s exactly the kind of leadership a community can count on.