John O’Connell told county commissioners at their Tuesday morning board meeting that he will retire from his duties as county administrator this spring.

O’Connell has served as administrator for the past seven years. He is also on the county budget committee and was a county commissioner for five years before becoming administrator.  He notified county department managers and employees by email shortly before his formal announcement at the commissioners’ meeting. Saying “It is time to move on,” in the email, O’Connell explained that the administrator responsibilities have “taken most of my time, energy and commitment. In the future there are some other interests and options that I plan to pursue.”

O’Connell’s legacy in county administration includes a number of projects that have modernized the function and outlook of various departments. Asked in a recent conversation which of his accomplishments were the most satisfying, he pointed to upgrading the accounting system and implementing standardized job descriptions for the county. Carrie Kipfer, county finance director, commented on O’Connell’s career as administrator saying, “There have been a lot of improvements and progress,” in the past seven years.

Additional areas that have benefited from O’Connell’s attention are the modernization and security of the computer system and electronic records and the county’s leadership in recycling. “Lincoln County is in the forefront or organic recycling,” O’Connell said.

Asked what issues will face the county in the near term, he cited the need for legislation that will resolve the funding issues for Two Bridges Regional Jail. O’Connell also looks forward to seeing future initiatives from the county’s regional planning commission.

Overall, he said, “It’s been interesting.” He believes that the current system of county government may evolve to a new form. “Ten years out, local government will change — we can’t keep placing the burden on those paying property tax.” He also reassured his fellow county employees that the popular St. Patrick’s Day luncheons will continue.