“Andy has extensive experience serving in public service in Northern Arizona for more than 25 years,” said Jeronimo Vazquez, Board Chair and Supervisor for District 2. “He has been an excellent deputy county manager and we look forward to his leadership into the future. I would also like to thank County Manager Steve Peru for his many years of service and continued contributions to our community.”

Bertelsen will return as Coconino County Deputy County Manager in 2022, having previously served as Public Works Director, Interim Deputy County Manager and Director of Planning and Budget. He was instrumental in developing responses to some extremely challenging events, including the 2010 Schultz Fire and subsequent flooding. He also served as Community Planner and Assistant Mayor for the City of Sedona and Public Works Director and Water Services Director for the City of Flagstaff.

“I am honored that the Board of Supervisors has placed their trust and confidence in me to serve as Coconino County Administrator,” Bertelsen said. “I am excited to continue the county's commitment to providing value to residents and positively impacting the communities we serve.”

Steve Pelu will remain with Coconino County and will assist Bertelsen with the transition as assistant county administrator with a focus on special initiatives and community partnerships.

“Steve has dedicated many years of service to Coconino County, and we are grateful to have had him as county administrator not once but twice,” said Board Vice Chair Judy Begay, Supervisor for District 4. “When you get to know Andy, it's clear he has the management experience and ability to work with people to fulfill his responsibilities as county administrator.”

Steve Peru began his second term as Coconino County Administrator in April 2021. He was first hired by Coconino County in 1979 and served there for 32 years in several positions including Community Services Coordinator, Finance Director, Election Director, Deputy County Administrator and, in 2006, County Administrator. He continued in this role until 2011, when he joined W. L. Gore & Associates and held leadership positions with United Way of Northern Arizona and the Coconino Community College Foundation.

“My goals as County Manager and expectations for my term on the County Board of Supervisors have been accomplished,” said Steve Pelu. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together and look forward to beginning my new role. Coconino County has given me the opportunity to learn, grow and build a team that feels like family, and I will always be grateful for the support over the years and for having had the opportunity to work with such a great team of employees who are so dedicated to public service.”

“Steve returned as Coconino County Supervisor at a time when we needed him most,” said Supervisor Patrice Horstman, District 1. “He provided stability and energized leadership for the organization as we navigated a pandemic, wildfires and floods. His experience and leadership have served the county well.”

“The selection of Andy Bertelsen as the next Coconino County Commissioner was seamless and his leadership will position us for continued success,” said Third District Supervisor Adam Hess.

“Since 2009, I have had the privilege of working with both Andy and Steve, and we have been through a lot together,” said District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler. “From working on natural disasters, budget management and road maintenance planning, to designating national monuments, hosting court services in Tuba City and administering elections throughout Coconino County, they have both worked hard and I am proud of how well prepared the county was for Andy at the helm.”

For more information about Coconino County leadership, visit www.coconino.az.gov/605/meet-the-managers