The Rickert Report: Introductions and Updates - July 2024
Dear Shasta County Residents,
My name is David J. Rickert, and I am honored to serve as your County Executive Officer. Having joined Shasta County just over a year ago, I am pleased to share how much my family and I have embraced our new home. Moving from Illinois, where I served as Treasurer for Kane County and CFO for Winnebago County, we have been warmly welcomed and are thrilled to be part of this vibrant community.
As part of my commitment to keeping you informed and engaged with county affairs, I am launching this Blog, "The Rickert Report", as a monthly update for residents, straight from the Shasta CEO. These entries will provide a snapshot of our recent achievements, ongoing projects, and important decisions that impact our county.
Appointment of New Registrar of Voters/County Clerk
Last month, the Board of Supervisors selected Thomas Toller as the new Shasta County Clerk/Registrar of Voters in a 3-2 vote. This decision came after two days of public interviews and extensive deliberation, ensuring transparency and public involvement in the selection process.
He brings an impressive blend of legal experience and education to his new role. Mr. Toller currently serves on the Board of Trustees for the Shasta County Law Library and holds degrees from UC Berkeley, UC Hastings College of the Law. His extensive professional background includes a private practice, roles as Deputy District Attorney in Shasta and Tehama Counties, and significant contributions to the California District Attorneys Association.
The majority of the Board is confident that Mr. Toller's legal expertise and dedication to public service will greatly benefit our community, ensuring fair and transparent elections.
Adoption of the 2024-2025 County Budget
I am pleased to announce that the Shasta County Board of Supervisors has approved and adopted the budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. To prepare for future economic uncertainties, I challenged department heads to reduce their budgets by 5% compared to last year. Their diligent efforts resulted in a 5.81% ($6.4 million) reduction in the General Fund Discretionary Revenue Budget.
This significant saving enhances our financial flexibility and security, positioning Shasta County to navigate economic fluctuations more effectively. I commend our department heads for their strategic thinking, clarity, and thoroughness during the budget hearings. Their dedication ensures we can continue to serve our community efficiently while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
Thank you for taking the time to read this update. I look forward to sharing more about our progress and initiatives in the coming months. Together, we can build a stronger Shasta County.
Sincerely,
David J. Rickert
County Executive Officer
County of Shasta
CORRECTION:
It has come to my attention that I may have inadvertently misled some readers in the first version of this blog entry. When referring to Mr. Toller’s “blend of experience,” I was highlighting his background as a lawyer and his educational history. This was not to imply that he has experience in elections, as he himself has stated.
Additionally, the Board made this appointment with a 3-2 vote. When I mentioned that “the Board of Supervisors is confident…”, I should have specified that “the majority of the Board of Supervisors is confident...” I have made these changes to avoid any further confusion.
Thank you for your feedback on this post. The goal of this new blog is to enhance transparency and encourage public discussion of County matters. Please continue to voice your thoughts and join the conversation.
- David J. Rickert, Shasta County CEO
