The new Sanders County Sanitarian, Jeremy Leavitt, is learning the ropes with training in Helena and continuing classes as he takes on the responsibilities of his new position. Leavitt moved to Thompson Falls from Yakima, Washington, where he worked for a large produce company. Leavitt, born in Spokane, grew up in Wenatchee and went to pharmacy school in Eastern Washington. He sold pharmaceuticals when he finished college. "I have a strong background knowledge of environmental health and experience with agriculture and food safety," Leavitt said.

"There is a lot to learn about the job of a sanitarian," Leavitt added. The logistics of training in Montana and getting things signed off has been a challenge for Leavitt. "The Helena office has been helpful with getting what I need for certification."

Besides septic and sewage permits and inspections, Leavitt has several other areas that his job description covers, including Montana laws and regulations for public facilities such as swimming pools, food services and animals in food service establishments, Montana codes, FDA codes and USDA meat codes.

"Cottage food operations and guidelines and registrations are also a part of the food industry that requires a license," Leavitt said. Cottage food is what the department refers to as homemade foods that people sell from their homes to the general public. This does not include foods sold at farmers' markets, according to the Department of Public Health and Human Services.

"I like helping people and doing it the correct way and doing it properly for people's health," Leavitt said. He does not want to intimidate people with his inspections but rather, "I want you to be safe and sanitary by doing what is best for your business and people's health." Leavitt concluded, "I love Sanders County and want to make a positive impact."

Jeremy Leavitt works at his new desk as the Sanders County Sanitarian.