The Monterey County Board of Supervisors approved the employment agreement for Ray Buenaventura to serve as the county's next public defender.

County counsel and staff outlined a recruitment process that produced Buenaventura, who currently serves as the public defender in Lake County, California. County staff told the board the agreement calls for a Dec. 1 start date, a four‑year at‑will appointment and an initial salary placement at step 3 of a seven‑step salary range for the position.

County counsel said Buenaventura brings legal and administrative experience the county sought during the search. Members of the public and staff from the existing public defender office had an opportunity to comment; board members thanked PD office staff for participating in the process.

Supervisor Alejo moved to approve the employment agreement; the board voted to confirm the appointment.

What happens next: the chair will execute the employment agreement and county human resources will work with the public defender's office to finalize onboarding and a Dec. 1 start.

Why it matters: The appointment fills a senior legal leadership position that handles indigent defense and office management, matters that affect the operation of the county's criminal justice system.