Sean Quincey and Tom Mattson leaving County jobs? And is it because of budget woes?

 

In the last year, I have been the only one to report about exits from the County, whether it be County Counsel's office or other departments. I hinted at more people leaving.

Humboldt County budget woes are no secret. I just learned through the grapevine that Deputy County Administrative Sean Quincey and Public Works Director Tom Mattson are leaving or thinking of leaving. 

I have reached out to both for comment. They may or may not respond and they may deny for many reasons. One of the reasons I am doing this post now is because I do not want them to go to other media before answering me. Another reason is that if this is untrue, then better to shut down the rumor mill right away.

Got an automatic response that Sean is out of the office today. Tom Mattson responded at 11:05 , "No plans to leave anytime soon. "

Sean did send me a lengthy response at 12:32 p.m. Summary is that he says he is not leaving. After you read his response, my next sentence will make sense.

Sean, as the next in line after CAO Elishia Hayes, of course your present and future career plans are newsworthy.

"Hey John, My apologies for not getting back to you. It's lunch time and I'm on my way back from Sacramento where we talked for a couple days with leaders around the state about matters making their ways through the legislature that directly impact counties, on topics having to deal with housing and homelessness, Prop 36 implementation and SUD treatment, federal litigation and funding cuts, and how we as counties can refocus on delivering outcomes for our communities."

"I am honestly flattered that you feel like my career plans as a non-elected, non-appointed bureaucrat are newsworthy :) And Tom as the person who has done so much great work for Humboldt over a long career should have his name mentioned way before mine."

"At the same time I am fully aware of the responsibility of my position and our entire department, which is made up of people who I am privileged to be reminded of every day how incredibly talented and community-minded they all are. From the dedicated people in our Purchasing Team, to the creative and tireless ADA Division, our IT rock stars, forward-looking and eternally optimistic Economic Development Team, and of course the people who have become my second family in the Management & Budget Team. I love this place. I love working for the county. I am unendingly appreciative and humbled at having the opportunity to work with so many talented, smart, driven people at departments all over and at every level of this organization, and partners all over the county who are trying to make this a better place."

"In asmuch as my work future is worthy of any ink, I hope that I am helping to move our community forward as a public servant. The county is also providing me with a great work environment and opportunity to raise my family. I'm planning on staying as long as the county will have me."