To: Board of Supervisors
From: Ann Elliott, Human Resources Director
Report Title: Introduce Ordinance No. 2026-012
☐Recommendation of the County Administrator ☐ Recommendation of Board Committee
RECOMMENDATIONS:
INTRODUCE Ordinance 2026-012 amending Section 33-5.313 of the County Ordinance Code to exempt from the merit system the new classification of Chief Operating Officer-Exempt; WAIVE reading and FIX June 23, 2026, for adoption.
FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no fiscal impact for this action. If a position in this classification is added in a future action, all costs associated with salary and benefits will be funded by Hospital Enterprise Fund I and will be offset by cancellation of a comparable position.
BACKGROUND:
The Department is requesting to establish the classification of Chief Operating Officer-Exempt as part of the recent re-organization of Contra Costa Health. This single-position classification will provide executive-level leadership and be accountable for the overall operational and financial performance of all divisions. Establishing this classification strengthens fiscal stewardship, supports long-term planning, and aligns financial management with the Department’s broad and complex service responsibilities. County Counsel will amend the Ordinance as required for exempting positions from the merit system, pending Board approval.
CONSEQUENCE OF NEGATIVE ACTION:
If not approved, the Department's ability to effectively manage a large and complex healthcare system serving county residents may be impacted due to the absence of a dedicated executive role responsible for departmentwide operational coordination, executive accountability, and implementation of strategic initiatives.