County welcomes new County Manager

While the organization searched for a new County Manager, the County was supported by an interim leadership team of dedicated staff.

||| FROM SAN JUAN COUNTY COMMUNICATIONS |||

San Juan County is pleased to welcome a new County Manager and thanks the invaluable support of the interim leadership team. Within one month of starting, County Manager Jessica Hudson is already diving into key County projects including the comprehensive plan update, budget amendments, and capital projects.

“In these first few weeks with the County I’ve been introduced to this amazing community full of passionate, smart, and dedicated staff and community members,” said Hudson. “I’m delighted to be here and look forward to supporting and uplifting priority work and projects.”

Hudson was formerly the Director at Fairfax County Public Library in Fairfax, Virginia where she oversaw a system of 23 public facilities, a budget of $35 million, and 550 staff. She brings experience in developing and administering strategic plans, initiating public service operation expansions, and supporting major capital projects. 

In the interim, San Juan County was supported by a number of staff members who stepped into new responsibilities. The County’s Health & Community Services (HCS) Director, Mark Tompkins, served as the Interim County Manager and provided steady leadership and guidance for the organization. Tompkins has been with the County since 1998 and has been an instrumental member of the organization over his 25 years of service. 

“Mark stepped into the interim role with grace, open mindedness, and a problem-solving approach with a focus on prioritizing the needs of the constituents we serve,” said Council Chair Jane Fuller. “The way he handled the recruitment of a new county manager was critical to our success in hiring a very qualified candidate in Jessica Hudson.”

Kyle Dodd, HCS Deputy Director and Environmental Health Manager was a key player in supporting both HCS and the Department of Community Development (DCD) during the majority of 2024. He is celebrating 10 years with the County this month and has been integral in implementing new procedures, managing permit applications, and establishing consistency in the department.

“Kyle has skillfully and graciously met every challenge we sent his way during this time of transition,” said Councilmember Cindy Wolf.  “He is a levelheaded leader and active problem solver whose knowledge and expertise are invaluable for the County.”

The organization also thanks the County’s Parks and Fair Director, Brandon Andrews, who served as the interim Assistant County Manager. Andrews was hired in 2021 and has contributed to major County initiatives including the 32-hour work week, the Recreation, Open Space, and Stewardship Plan, and numerous capital improvement projects. 

“Brandon easily stepped into the Interim Assistant County Manager role and was a valuable member of the leadership team,” said Councilmember Christine Minney. “He is a creative, systems-thinker who has provided steady guidance to our organization.”    

The County thanks all employees for their dedicated public service and looks forward to continued collaboration as the organization strives to provide essential services to island residents.