Cook County board offers interim county administrator role to former administrator Rena Rogers

The Cook County Board of Commissioners voted on March 25 to offer the interim county administrator position to former Cook County administrator Rena Rogers; the motion passed unanimously.

Commissioner Gamble moved to authorize the Human Resources director, board chair and interim county administrator to offer the interim full-time administrator role to Rena Rogers and, if she accepted, to negotiate a contract for later board approval. Commissioner Sullivan seconded. Commissioners voiced support during a discussion that emphasized Rogers's prior county experience and familiarity with county systems and staff.

Rogers accepted the offer at the meeting and said she felt "humbled" and willing to help. She told commissioners she understands the interim role as keeping "wheels on the bus" and said she would not continue outside contract work for North Shore Waste during the interim appointment. Rogers said that she and the county had ended that consulting relationship and that she would not perform work for North Shore Waste while serving as interim.

Board members and staff thanked outgoing interim administrator Rowan Watson for his service in the role and confirmed that Watson will return to his prior role as director of management information services. Commissioners discussed next steps for recruiting a permanent administrator and signaled they would use a consultant (DDA) to help with a full recruitment process and timeline.

The motion authorized staff to make a formal offer and to present any negotiated interim contract back to the board for final approval.