MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Mayor Tom Barrett has turned to the suburban counties to find a new leader for Milwaukee's fight against the virus.

He appointed Kirsten Johnson to be the city's new commissioner of health Thursday, Jan. 14.

Johnson most recently has been the director of the Washington-Ozaukee Health Department. 

"In her role as Commissioner, Kirsten Johnson will bring experience, knowledge, and commitment to the Milwaukee Health Department,” said Mayor Tom Barrett. “Kirsten has an extensive history of leadership and service in the field of public health. Her expertise will strengthen the efforts of our health department as we continue to navigate the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

If the common council approves her appointment, Johnson would take over for Marlaina Jackson, who has been the interim health commissioner during much of the pandemic.