Coconino County has crowned a new kingpin of county management after the Board of Supervisors gave Andy Bertelsen the nod, making him the successor to the throne as County Manager starting July 1. Bertelsen, who has been serving as Deputy County Manager, bagged the position with a unanimous vote, according to county officials. "Andy has a wealth of experience in public service spanning over 25 years in Northern Arizona," Supervisor Jeronimo Vasquez, the Board's leading man, said in the announcement.
Before stepping up, Bertelsen's resume boasted significant gigs, including Public Works Director and Water Services Director in the City of Flagstaff and a stint in Sedona as Community Planner. He's no stranger to crises either, having played a key role in handling the 2010 Shultz Fire and its subsequent deluge. His predecessor, Steve Peru, isn't vanishing into the sunset but will stick around, providing counsel to Bertelsen and working on special initiatives and partnerships, the county's statement elaborated.
Bertelsen expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him, pledging to "continue the County’s commitment to deliver value to our residents and make a positive impact on the communities we serve." Peru likewise tipped his hat to the accomplishments of the team during his reign, and expressed enthusiasm for his new, yet-unnamed task force within the county's governance system.
Voices across the Board chimed in with praise for both Peru and Bertelsen. Vice Chair Judy Begay spotlighted Peru's "selfless" tenure, while District 1 Supervisor Patrice Horstman hailed his leadership through the maelstrom of public health crises and natural calamities. With a resume that spans three decades at Coconino County, including a gig as Finance Director, and top jobs at WL Gore and in local philanthropy, Peru's boots will be large for Bertelsen to fill. Still, the Board's consensus was clear – Bertelsen's the man for the job, with District 3 Supervisor Adam Hess touting the "seamless" transition and District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler reminiscing over past collaborations with both Peru and Bertelsen on a slew of county initiatives.
For those interested in the nuts and bolts of Coconino's leadership or the lowdown on the county manager shuffle, more details can be snatched at the county's official website.
