The Pima County Board of Supervisors announced that the county’s next administrator will earn a base salary of $362,500 per year, according to a contract proposal shared with Arizona Luminaria. The figure represents an increase of almost 10% compared with the $330,000 base salary reported in Jan Lesher’s 2025 contract.
Contract details and timeline
The board plans to publish the complete contract on Nov. 12, giving the public ample time to review the terms before a vote scheduled for the Nov. 24 meeting. “We wanted to have the proposed contract released to the public prior to voting to approve it,” Board Chairperson Heinz wrote to Arizona Luminaria.
The agreement includes a two‑year initial term with multiple renewal options ranging from six months to two years, as well as retirement and other benefits that are largely consistent with those offered to the prior two administrators, with some differences.
Selection process
Carmine DeBonis Jr. was chosen by a unanimous 5‑0 vote on Oct. 27 after a nationwide recruitment effort that attracted more than 70 applicants and culminated in interviews with three finalists. The selection process involved a recruitment committee, county staff, and community members, underscoring the board’s commitment to transparency and community input.
DeBonis brings more than three decades of experience to the role. He began his county career in 1991 as an aide to former Supervisor Ed Moore, later served as director of the Development Services Department, and was appointed deputy county administrator in 2016. In that capacity he oversaw departments focused on economic development, environmental quality, and public works.
Transition from Lesher
DeBonis is set to succeed retiring administrator Jan Lesher, who has led the county government since 2022. Lesher will retire on Jan. 7, 2027, with DeBonis assuming the position the following day. Lesher’s contract also included a vehicle stipend of $550 per month, a benefit that may be adjusted under the new agreement.
Unlike DeBonis’ appointment, Lesher was selected by a 4‑1 vote in April 2022 after a brief interim period, without a statewide recruitment drive. District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy, the board’s sole Republican member, supported her interim appointment.
Role of the county administrator
The county administrator is responsible for day‑to‑day operations, implementing policies adopted by the board of supervisors, and managing county departments and services. The position is pivotal to ensuring that Pima County’s government runs efficiently and remains responsive to the needs of its residents.
The board originally intended to discuss the contract at its Nov. 10 meeting but postponed the item to Nov. 24 to allow more time for public comment. The upcoming public release of the contract reflects the board’s effort to keep taxpayers informed and engaged in decisions that affect county leadership and compensation.
Original reporting: Arizona Luminaria — read the source article.
