The Nevada County Board of Supervisors has selected Lisa Swarthout as chair and Sue Hoek as vice chair for 2026. Swarthout, representing District 3 which includes Grass Valley and Cedar Ridge, will lead Board meetings, approve agendas, manage committee appointments, and preside over county ceremonies, according to the Nevada County.
Swarthout, a former Grass Valley retailer with three decades of experience, declared 2026 as the Year of Small Businesses. She stated, "Whether you’re a start-up, a business looking to expand or a business that’s just looking to stay here and needs some help, I want the County to be your partner in success," emphasizing her commitment to supporting local enterprises, as reported by the Nevada County.
Vice-chair Sue Hoek has served on the board since 2019 and represents District 4, which includes Lake Wildwood, North San Juan, and other communities. Former chair Heidi Hall, who led the board in 2025, focused on youth programs, including the Year of the Youth and the Youth Commission’s free bus fares for children. In her final remarks, Hall said, "All of this work reflects what’s possible when we listen to our community, partner with residents and organizations and stay focused on long-term needs," as stated by the Nevada County.
