Shasta County Supervisors appoint new HHSA Director, Mental Health Services Director

REDDING, Calif. — In the first major move since several key Shasta County administrators left county employment, a new Health and Human Services Agency director and acting director of Mental Health Services were appointed on Tuesday.

Laura Burch had the word "Interim" removed from her title by the board of supervisors, becoming the HHSA Director at a little more than $200,000 a year in salary.

“I look forward to this time. I think it’s exciting in HHSA. Different things that are happening. There’s also challenges, but this will be a new season for our agency. We’ve gone through a lot of changes already. But, I think, we’re turning the corner and things are going to get better and better," said Burch.

And Miguel Rodriguez was appointed acting Mental Health Services director.

In a somewhat rare occurrence, supervisors were in unanimous agreement.

“Your services are the most important to the health of our community. And, we need to all work together. So, I’m very excited that you’re in the positions you are,” said Joe Chimenti.

“The two of them, in those positions, will serve Shasta County well. So, thank you, for being willing to serve,” said Mary Rickert.

“Shasta County is blessed to have two quality employees that can move into these positions. So, you have my support,” said Tim Garman.

“I think the process to get here was very transparent, and open, to be able to find replacements for these positions. I think, we have the right two people at the right time,” said Patrick Jones.

“It’s the right decision for the county as a whole. You are, as Supervisor Jones says, exactly the right people at the right time,” said Les Baugh.

Shasta County joins almost all other California counties in having separate HHSA and mental health services directors. There are only two other counties in the state that have the same person wear both hats.

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