The Marin County Board of Supervisors convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss significant organizational changes aimed at enhancing the county's operational effectiveness. The meeting was led by County Executive Derek Johnson, who outlined a proposed restructuring of the county executive leadership model, transitioning from a county administrator to a county executive framework.

Johnson emphasized the necessity of this shift, citing evolving challenges that require innovative solutions and improved coordination among departments. He noted that the restructuring aligns with the Board of Supervisors' core priorities and aims to enhance strategic capacity across all departments. The proposed changes are designed to modernize the county's executive structure, clarify roles, and ensure alignment with operational and strategic goals.

Key objectives of the restructuring include improving internal coordination, focusing on sustainability, and addressing the complexities of current challenges, such as housing mandates and climate change. Johnson highlighted the importance of collaboration across various departments, particularly in law enforcement, public works, and health services, to optimize efficiency and meet community needs.

The meeting also featured presentations from Anne Edwards and Jeanette Williams, consultants from the Center for Organizational Effectiveness, who provided insights from extensive research and interviews conducted with county employees and leaders. They discussed the benefits of a leadership model where department heads report to assistant county executives, which can foster better strategic thinking and interdepartmental collaboration.

The proposed structure includes the introduction of four assistant county executives, each overseeing different operational groups, which aims to distribute responsibilities more effectively and enhance support for department heads. This model is expected to facilitate better communication and decision-making processes, ultimately leading to improved service delivery to the community.

Johnson clarified that the restructuring would be cost-neutral in terms of job descriptions but acknowledged that the county's evolving needs may necessitate additional resources. The total net cost of implementing the new structure is projected to be approximately $2.5 million annually, which Johnson argued is a necessary investment to meet the county's strategic objectives.

The Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the proposed resolution in the coming weeks, marking a pivotal step in Marin County's governance and operational strategy. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing engagement with employees and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the new leadership structure.