SWAMPSCOTT — After receiving six applications, the Swampscott Board of Health has appointed a new member to replace Stephanie Goodman, who resigned this summer.
Dr. Peter Sheckman was confirmed as the new interim member of the Board of Health Wednesday at the joint Board of Health and Select Board meeting. The appointment fills the vacancy on the three-member board.
Board of Health Chair Marianne Hartmann said that she was excited to have Sheckman’s experience on the board.
“So much of our focus right now is on COVID. If it weren’t COVID times we’d be focusing on other things,” Hartmann said. “The next six months, I’m sure, will continue to be focused on COVID and it was a part of the decision-making process.”
Sheckman is a retired infectious-disease and internal-medicine specialist. He practiced in Lynn for more than 30 years until he retired two years ago. He was the president of the North Shore Medical Group from 1985-96. He was then hired as medical director of North Shore Physicians Group in Lynn.
Sheckman was unable to attend the meeting due to a rehearsal with the Boston Civic Symphony, where he has played the cello since 1975.
David Grishman, a member of the Select Board, said he was happy to see so many residents wanting to get involved with town leadership.
“The resumés were stellar and it was inspiring to see so many people looking to step up to be involved in the town,” Grishman said.
Emily Cilley, a member of the Board of Health, said that she was excited to have Sheckman on board, but acknowledged that it was a difficult decision due to other impressive applicants.
“I want to acknowledge that some of the other candidates sound like they were amazing also,” Cilley said. “I hope that they do stay involved and stay interested.”
Hartmann said she has known Sheckman for many years and believes he will add a great deal of knowledge to the board.
“He’s really smart and a genuine person,” Hartmann said. “We’re really lucky to have him on board.”
