Milwaukee mayor appoints Mike Totoraitis as commissioner of health

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Following a national search, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson has appointed Dr. Michael Totoraitis as commissioner of health of the city of Milwaukee. 

Totoraitis most recently served as the Director of Health Data and Evaluation within the Milwaukee Health Department.

“I am very pleased Mike has accepted my offer to lead the city’s public health efforts. His experience, education, and character give him a solid background to take on the role of Commissioner,” Mayor Johnson said. “Mike is well connected with people and organizations in our city, so he is set to build on the partnerships the Health Department has in Milwaukee.”

According to a news release, Totoraitis earned his doctorate degree in Public and Community Health from the Medical College of Wisconsin. His career has included work at Milwaukee’s Safe & Sound, the city’s Office of Violence Prevention, Milwaukee County, the Medical College of Wisconsin, and, for the past two years, in a leadership position within the Milwaukee Health Department.

“I am honored by Mayor Johnson’s appointment and am excited to lead this team of passionate public health professionals,” said Dr. Totoraitis. “The foundational work set by former Commissioner Johnson has given our department a clear strategic vision. I look forward to continuing the momentum we have started together.”

The Mayor’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Milwaukee Common Council. Following committee review, the full Council could act on the nomination as soon as the second week in May.

If approved, Totoraitis would succeed Kirsten Johnson who is now the Secretary-designee at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.