Andy Bertelsen. Courtesy photo.
COCONINO COUNTY — After unanimous approval from the Coconino County Board of Supervisors (Board), Andy Bertelsen will be Coconino County’s next County Manager. Bertelsen is currently Deputy County Manager and will begin his new role on July 1.
“Andy has a wealth of experience in public service spanning over 25 years in Northern Arizona,” said Jeronimo Vasquez, Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 2. “He’s an incredible Deputy County Manager, and we look forward to his leadership into the future. I’d also like to thank County Manager Steve Peru for his many years of service and his continued commitment to our community.”
Bertelsen returned to Coconino County as a Deputy County Manager in 2022 and previously served as the Public Works Director, Interim Assistant County Manager, and Planning and Budget Manager. He was instrumental in creating the response to extremely challenging events, including the 2010 Shultz Fire and subsequent flooding. He has also held positions in the City of Sedona as Community Planner and as Assistant to the City Manager, and in the City of Flagstaff as Public Works Director and Water Services Director.
“I am honored that the Board of Supervisors has the confidence and faith in me to take on the position of Coconino County Manager,” said Bertelsen. “I’m excited to continue the County’s commitment to deliver value to our residents and make a positive impact on the communities we serve.”
Steve Peru will remain with the Coconino County, assisting with Bertelsen’s transition and becoming Assistant to the County Manager focusing on special initiatives and community partnerships.
“Steve selflessly served Coconino County for many years, and we are thankful to have had him not once, but twice as County Manager,” said Judy Begay, Vice Chair of the Board and Supervisor for District 4. “When you know Andy, it is evident that he has the experience in management and working with people to handle the responsibilities of being County Manager.”
Steve Peru began his second tenure as Coconino County Manager in April 2021. He was first hired at Coconino County in 1979 where he worked for 32 years in several capacities including Community Services Coordinator, Finance Director, Elections Director, Deputy County Manager, and then County Manager in 2006. He continued this role until 2011 and went on to join WL Gore and Associates as well as holding leadership positions at the United Way of Northern Arizona and the Coconino Community College Foundation.
“My goals as county manager and the Board of Supervisors’ expectations of my tenure are complete,” Steve Peru said, “I’m proud of the work we accomplished together, and I look forward to getting started in my new role. Coconino County has given me the opportunity to learn, grow and build a team that feels like family. I will always be grateful for the support throughout the years and to work with a team of amazing employees dedicated to public service.”
“Steve came back as Coconino County Manager when we needed him most,” said Patrice Horstman, District 1 Supervisor. “He navigated the pandemic, wildfires, and floods all while providing organizational stability and vibrant leadership. His experience and leadership has served the County well.”
“The appointment of Andy Bertelsen as the next Coconino County Manager feels seamless and his leadership will bring us continued success,” said Adam Hess, District 3 Supervisor.”
“Since 2009, I’ve had the opportunity to work with both Andy and Steve. We’ve been through a lot together,” said Lena Fowler, District 5 Supervisor. “From working on natural disasters, budget management, and road maintenance initiatives, to national monument designations, holding court services in Tuba City, and managing elections for all of Coconino County, they both work hard and I’m proud to see the County prepared for Andy to take the lead.”
For more information about Coconino County leadership visit www.coconino.az.gov/605/meet-the-managers.