CAO Message: Farewell and Thank You!

Message from Chief Administrative Officer Helen Robbins-Meyer:

How does one say goodbye and thank you to friends and colleagues who have been such a joy to work with? Over the years, I’ve had the honor of getting to know many of you. I’ve relied on you to serve our residents with compassion and excellence. You’ve built a reputation for San Diego as one of the most respected and admired counties in this nation. You’ve worked tirelessly to keep our roads in great condition, to help our most vulnerable residents get the assistance they need, to keep our communities safe, to preserve our environment for future generations, to help our kids grow up happy and healthy, and so much more. 

Public service is the most rewarding opportunity one could ever imagine. Every day we are faced with challenges. And every day we rise to them, with commitment to ensure we are doing everything possible to help improve the lives of our residents. It’s not easy. In fact, it’s really hard. But every day YOU make it happen. And for this I will be forever grateful. I couldn’t have asked to serve beside more caring, compassionate and competent people. You’ve made me proud every single day to work for the County of San Diego as your CAO.

Retirement is something we all dream about. But when it actually comes, it is daunting. Because you leave behind decades of relationships and feelings of professional accomplishments every single day and step into the unknown. But there is also a sense of wonder as to what’s next. For me, it’s spending time with my husband, my children, and my grandchildren. It’s volunteering with some of the organizations that I’ve had a chance to learn about. And most importantly, it’s about stepping aside to allow a new generation of leaders to take over. It’s time for me to get out of their way and cheer them on from the sidelines! They are ready! And so are you. Change keeps things fresh, exciting and relevant. And all of you have so much to look forward to as the Board officially appoints a new Interim CAO tomorrow while they conduct the search for a permanent replacement.

Let me wrap up 26 years of service with a very simple THANK YOU. It’s been an absolute honor to work with you and to play a small part in making San Diego County great. 

Best wishes forever.