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Board appoints Christie Coleman permanent HHSA director after 10 months as interim; some supervisors seek open recruitment
Summary
After a 10‑month interim period, the board appointed Christie Coleman as director of Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) in a 4‑1 vote. Supporters cited internal improvements and collaboration; opponents urged an open recruitment to vet external candidates.
The Shasta County Board of Supervisors voted 4‑1 on Aug. 12 to appoint Christie Coleman as permanent director of the county Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA), effective Aug. 13. Coleman has served as interim director since May 2025 and previously held leadership roles in housing and child support.
CEO Dave Rickert and several department managers told the board Coleman has worked on budget issues, personnel and morale questions and has advanced coordination between HHSA and community partners. Rickert said Coleman has helped stabilize program budgets and “has a very good can‑do attitude.” Multiple HHSA staff spoke during public comment in support of Coleman, describing increased engagement and internal reforms since she became interim director.
Supervisor Long, while praising Coleman’s competence, said he favors an open recruitment for department head positions to ensure the best available candidate and to preserve incoming boards’ flexibility. Long said he would support Coleman if she competed through an external process. Other supervisors, notably Matt Plummer and Corky Harmon, argued the agency needs stability and that Coleman’s interim performance — including revamped reporting and staff outreach — justified a permanent appointment now.
The board voted 4‑1, with Long voting no. The resolution also waived a personnel rule to place Coleman at the C step of the salary range ($95.09/hour), the same step she occupied while interim. Staff said Coleman has been approved by the state to serve as mental health director for a 12‑month period while she completes qualifying requirements.
Several public speakers urged a competitive recruitment process; others and HHSA employees asked for continuity after months of turnover. The board directed staff to proceed with the appointment as voted.
