Submitted by San Juan County
While the organization searched for a new County Manager, the County was supported by an interim leadership team of dedicated staff.
San Juan County is pleased to welcome a new County Manager and thanks the interim leadership team for their invaluable support. Just one month after taking office, County Manager Jessica Hudson is already diving into key County projects, including the comprehensive plan update, budget changes and capital projects.
“In these first weeks in the county, I have been introduced to this wonderful community full of passionate, intelligent and dedicated staff and community members,” Hudson said. “I am excited to be here and look forward to supporting and advancing priority work and projects.”
Hudson was formerly director of the Fairfax County Public Library in Fairfax, Virginia, where she oversaw a system of 23 public facilities, a $35 million budget, and 550 employees. She brings experience developing and managing strategic plans, initiating public service expansions, and supporting major capital projects.
In the interim, San Juan County was assisted by a number of staff members who took on new responsibilities. Mark Tompkins, the county’s director of Health and Community Services (HCS), served as the county’s interim manager, providing stable leadership and direction to the organization. Tompkins has been with the county since 1998 and has been a key member of the organization during his 25 years of service.
“Mark took on the interim role with grace, open-mindedness and a problem-solving approach, focusing on putting the needs of the constituents we serve first,” said Council President 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’s deputy director and environmental health manager, has been a key figure in supporting HCS and the Department of Community Development (DCD) throughout most of 2024. This month, he celebrates ten years of service with the County and has been instrumental in implementing new procedures, managing permit applications, and creating consistency across the department.
“Kyle has skillfully and graciously handled every challenge we have presented to him during this transition,” said Council Member Cindy Wolf. “He is a thoughtful leader and active problem solver whose knowledge and expertise are invaluable to the county.”
The organization also thanks the county’s parks and fairs director, Brandon Andrews, who served as interim deputy county manager. Andrews was hired in 2021 and has contributed to key county initiatives including the 32-hour workweek, the Recreation, Open Space and Management Plan, and numerous capital improvement projects.
“Brandon smoothly stepped into the role of Interim Assistant County Manager and has been a valuable member of the leadership team,” said Council Member Christine Minney. “He is a creative systems thinker who has provided steady leadership to our organization.”
The County thanks all employees for their dedicated public service and looks forward to continued cooperation as the organization strives to provide essential services to Islanders.
