Interim CAO Message: Updates in the Organization

A message from Interim Chief Administrative Officer Sarah Aghassi:

Hi team, I wanted to take the opportunity to update you on some important organizational changes.

First, it has been an honor to serve as your interim Chief Administrative Officer, a temporary role I accepted to give the Board of Supervisors time to conduct their recruitment process for the permanent CAO.

My nearly two decades at the County have been deeply rewarding for me professionally and personally in each of the roles I have served, but none have made me prouder than my time as your Interim CAO. 

In the last six months, we have come together to help community members impacted by the January floods, collaborated across the organization to create a recommended budget for all, while ensuring the continuity of operations during this time of transition. Our team is as wonderfully diverse as our programs and services and is stronger than ever and will continue to make positive impacts in our communities. 

It has been a privilege to help lead you through these times, and I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me. 

We always knew my role as CAO would be temporary. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors approved the appointment of Ebony Shelton as the new Chief Administrative Officer. Ebony has a long history of commitment to public service that I know you share. Ebony will begin her new role on June 14.

With this transition, I want to share that, after a rewarding career with my County team, I have decided to pursue new adventures outside of the organization. My career has come full circle with years of public service and work with businesses, community organizations and non-profits, and now I am excited for what lies ahead as I bring all of that together in my next professional venture outside of the County organization. My last day with the County will be July 5.

I am humbled to witness the work our team does every day under a shared vision, shared mission and as One County Team. I wanted to be sure to take the time to thank you – each of you – for being the heart and soul of our organization. You embody the County’s values of integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence and sustainability. It has been a privilege to serve in this role with you. And the future is indeed bright!