The Coconino County Board of Supervisors selected Mike Townsend to assume the position of Interim County Manager, following the retirement of long-time County Manager Steve Peru.  Peru announced his retirement on October 7, after 32 years with Coconino County.  Townsend will assume the position of Interim County Manager on November 4, 2011, the date Peru’s retirement is effective.

“While the Board of Supervisors is sad to see Steve leave the organization, we are thrilled that Mike will lead this organization,” said Lena Fowler, Chairwoman of the Coconino County Board of Supervisors.  “Mike has been with the organization for many years and has led the organization through difficult economic times.  His leadership has been key to the county’s success as an organization.”

During his tenure at Coconino County, Townsend has served as the Finance Director and Chief Fiscal Officer and currently serves as Deputy County Manager.  Prior to joining Coconino County, Townsend served as the Finance and Budget Manager for the City of Flagstaff.

Townsend spent several years working in the private sector prior to joining the public sector.  Townsend also serves as a Board Trustee appointed by the Governor on the Arizona State Retirement System Board.

“I would like to thank the Board of Supervisors, the organization and the employees for their vote of confidence,”  Townsend said. “Coconino County faces some challenging times ahead and I am looking forwarding to leading this great organization.”