The Seneca County Board of Supervisors has appointed Melissa Taylor as county manager, approving a four-year contract that will run through the end of 2029.
Taylor has been serving as Deputy County Manager since August and has worked for Seneca County for over 17 years. Her appointment was approved at the board’s meeting on Tuesday, where department heads in attendance applauded the decision.
Supervisors had previously waived the residency requirement for the county manager position. Taylor, who lives in Lyons, will receive an annual salary of 155,123 dollars under the terms of the contract.
Before becoming deputy county manager, Taylor spent 10 years as director of the county’s Department of Emergency Management.
Speaking after her appointment, Taylor reflected on her long career with the county and expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
“When I first walked into this building nearly 17 and a half years ago for an interview, I never imagined that I would remain here for so long or that I would one day step into this role,” Taylor said. “My career with the county began as a union member with CSEA, and it progressed through middle management, then to a department head, and most recently, the Deputy County Manager. So I’ve kind of been everywhere.”
She said every role helped shape her professionally and personally.
“I can honestly say that I have valued and enjoyed every position I held here. Each role has contributed to my growth, both as a leader and, more importantly, as a person. And all of the relationships that I’ve built here, I will carry with me forever,” Taylor said.
Taylor said she is committed to serving county residents and employees and helping Seneca County grow.
“It is an honor to continue my service in Seneca County in this new role. And as a longtime employee, I believe in the power of government to do good, because I’ve seen firsthand the impact of our services and programs and how they affect our residents,” she said. “I will always act in the best interest of our county residents and our employees. I will strive to continue making Seneca County an enticing place for our businesses and families to move to and to prosper.”
She closed by thanking the board and county staff for their support.
“Once again, I just want to thank you all for this opportunity. It really is truly an honor,” Taylor said.
The county had been without a full-time manager since June 2024, with Board Chair Mike Enslow filling in.
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