Madera County, CA – Madera County Supervisors, along with state and federal leaders, honored retired Chief Administrative Officer Jay Varney for his decorated career in public service at the September 23 board meeting.

Varney’s career spans over four decades in law enforcement, including the last five years as CAO, leading the County through challenging times and significant growth. Under Varney’s direction, the County experienced a big jump in revenue, housing and businesses while guiding 25 County departments with an annual operating budget of over half a billion dollars.

Among his many achievements, Varney led the County in completing several capital projects, including the Madera County Justice Center, Fire Station #3, upgrading Fire Station #11 in North Fork and guided County staff through COVID and the economic downturn triggered by the pandemic.

In a statement, Supervisor Chair Leticia Gonzalez said, “CAO Varney stepped into leadership during one of the most challenging times in our county’s history, guiding us through the pandemic, difficult budgets and multiple disasters with integrity, humility and unwavering dedication. His leadership was marked by trust, fairness and a true commitment to the people he served.”

Assistant CAO Joel Bugay will serve as acting CAO. County Supervisors have selected Matthew Treber to serve as the county’s next CAO effective October 7.