Santa Barbara County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato announced her retirement on Friday.
She plans to retire in July 2026.
She has served in the top spot for the past 12 years.
“Serving Santa Barbara County has been the honor of my professional career,” said Miyasato in a statement. “Together, we modernized County operations, strengthened our safety net and justice system, invested in critical infrastructure, and communicated transparently, even during times of crisis. As we prepare for this transition, our focus remains steady: delivering essential services, supporting our workforce, and upholding the trust of our residents.”
Miyasato led a decade of organizational modernization to improve transparency, efficiency, and service delivery across County departments, according to a news release.
The County will initiate a national recruitment process for the County Executive Officer position in coordination with the Board of Supervisors and the Human Resources Department.
The news release states that Miyasato placed renewed emphasis on transparency, public communication and community engagement, re-establishing a centralized communications function, expanding public information capacity, and introducing plain-language summaries of Board actions along with a monthly Countywide electronic newsletter.
She also championed the expansion of homeless services and innovative approaches to homeless housing opportunities, the statement said.
She was in charge during emergency and recovery efforts, including the Thomas Fire, the Jan. 9 debris flow, multiple wildfires and severe winter storms, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Federal policy shifts and state fiscal uncertainty present real challenges ahead,” Miyasato said. “However, we have navigated disasters, deficits, and major policy changes before while continuing to deliver balanced budgets and essential services. The County is well positioned, with an experienced executive team, strong governance practices, and a thoughtful, fiscally responsible Board of Supervisors. This transition reflects a planned process and my commitment to help finalize the FY 2026–27 budget so that my successor inherits a clear and stable path forward.”
Board chair Bob Nelson said Miyasato’s leadership over the past 12 years has been “extraordinary.”
“Through periods of significant challenge and change, she has guided the County with integrity, steadiness, and a deep commitment to public service,” Nelson said. “Her work strengthened the organization, elevated our leadership team, and positioned the County to thrive well into the future. The strong foundation she leaves in place ensures that this organization will continue to succeed and serve our communities with excellence.”
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