San Diego County Officials Depart Amidst Leadership Changes and Policy Challenges
San Diego County is experiencing significant leadership changes and grappling with policy challenges. Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Andrew Strong, the top unelected official overseeing public safety, announced his departure effective October 1. Strong, who previously led the Office of Equity and Racial Justice, leaves as the county faces increased costs and bookings due to state criminal justice reform measure Proposition 36, and issues within its probation department. Additionally, Jennifer Bransford-Koons, interim behavioral health services director, is set to retire at the end of October, just weeks after taking over from the abruptly departed Nadia Privara. These departures have prompted concerns from the Behavioral Health Advisory Board, which plans to form a working group to ensure its involvement in selecting the next director. Meanwhile, Lemon Grove Mayor Alysson Snow has joined the county as a lawyer, leading a new Consumer Fairness and Public Protection unit.