The Pima County Board of Supervisors voted 5‑0 on Tuesday, Oct. 27, to name Carmine DeBons Jr. as the county’s next administrator. DeBons, who has spent more than three decades working for the county, will take over from retiring Administrator Jan Lesher on Jan. 8, 2027.
Historic search yields local leader
The appointment follows the first comprehensive, statewide recruitment effort for the county administrator role in nearly 40 years. More than 70 applicants were screened, and three finalists were interviewed before the board selected DeBons. The process involved a recruitment committee, county staff, and community members, underscoring the board’s commitment to transparency and citizen input.
Experience and vision
DeBons began his county career in 1991 as an aide to former Supervisor Ed Moore. He later served as director of the Development Services Department and was promoted to deputy county administrator in 2016. In that capacity he oversaw economic‑development, environmental‑quality, and public‑works departments, giving him a broad view of county operations.
Board Chair Jen Allen called the administrator “the most important appointed official in the county” and said the role is “the fulcrum upon which the entire county balances.” Allen added that supervisors spent nearly a year searching for a candidate who could protect vulnerable residents, safeguard natural resources, and make government more efficient and accessible.
Supervisors’ support
District 1 Supervisor Rex Scott highlighted DeBons’ deep knowledge of county functions and his collaborative, inclusive leadership style. “He also committed to being a collaborative and inclusive leader who will encourage others to bring forth their own good ideas,” Scott said.
District 5 Supervisor Andrés Cano noted DeBons’ track record on affordable housing, economic opportunity, climate action, and the county’s One Pima initiative. Cano said the board needed an administrator who would listen to employees, support professional development, and recognize public‑service contributions.
District 4 Supervisor Steve Christy, the board’s sole Republican, said he had supported DeBons from the start. “I have been a strong proponent of him in the role as the next county administrator from day one,” Christy said, adding that years of working together gave him confidence in DeBons’ leadership.
Role of the county administrator
The county administrator is the highest‑ranking appointed official in Pima County, overseeing thousands of employees, coordinating department operations, and implementing policies adopted by the five‑member board. The position is central to developing the county budget and managing services ranging from public health and infrastructure to housing and economic development.
DeBons’ appointment follows the retirement of Jan Lesher, who assumed the role in April 2022 after longtime administrator Chuck Huckelberry stepped down following a serious bicycle accident. Unlike Lesher’s appointment, which was made by a 4‑1 vote without a statewide search, DeBons was chosen after a transparent, competitive process.
Looking ahead
Board members expect to review DeBons’ employment contract on Nov. 10. The board also spent part of Tuesday’s meeting honoring Lesher’s service, with Allen describing Lesher as a mentor who helped her learn the ropes of public service.
With DeBons at the helm, the board anticipates continued progress on key initiatives such as affordable housing, climate‑action projects, and the One Pima vision for a more resilient, prosperous county.
Original reporting: Arizona Luminaria — read the source article.
