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by David Chasanov
Governor Stitt appointed retired Rear Admiral Gregory Slavonic as the interim commissioner of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. (KOKH)
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OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — Despite an emotional sine die, Governor Kevin Stitt says it was one of the best legislative sessions in his seven years as Oklahoma governor.
Following the removal of former mental health commissioner Allie Friesen, Governor Stitt says there's been a pattern of removing good people running different state agencies. He adds this makes it harder to find a replacement.
"When the legislature fired Allie [Friesen], that's when we went out," Governor Stitt said. "We tried to find the very best person to come in, and take this job."
Governor Stitt appointed retired Rear Admiral Gregory Slavonic as the interim commissioner of the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.
"No, I mean he's not a mental health expert. He's more of a business person. He's somebody that I think can do the job. My direction is hold these vendors accountable to make sure the dollars are being used correctly, efficiently to make sure we are actually being good stewards of the Oklahoma tax dollars."
Slavonic was previously chosen to lead the Oklahoma Veterans Agency, but stepped down in April of 2024.
"I'm just so thankful the Admiral stepped up to take this role because it's an important role. I know he has a heart to serve Oklahomans, and I think he'll do a great job."
Admiral Slavonic says he's grateful Governor Stitt is focused on rooting out corruption, and ensuring government is working for the people they serve.
The governor says lawmakers have given nothing but positive feedback about his new selection.
