Administrator plans to take new post in California

YATES COUNTY--Yates County Administrator Bob Lawton is leaving his position in Penn Yan to accept the city manager post in Turlock, California. Turlock is located about 105 miles east of San Francisco and has a population of 73,000.
Lawton, who was appointed to his Yates position in September, 2016, said he is proud of several things that have been accomplished in Yates. Lawton said, "Supporting the legislature in their development of a countywide mission, vision and values statement, providing department heads and staff with a unifying framework for policy proposals and program initiatives; and, supporting our elected and appointed officials in developing countywide and regional responses to state legislation raising from 16 to 18 the age for criminal responsibility in New York State ('Raise the Age')."
Lawton said some of the challenges Yates County will face in the future include state government's web of mandates will continue snaring local tax revenues for purposes determined in Albany. Too often, Yates County's stewardship in controlling costs is necessary simply to stay ahead of changes in state and federal funding. Lawton said, "Our legislature is ably supported in its prudent budget and fiscal priorities by our dedicated treasurer, who richly merits their confidence."
Lawton continued, "Like jurisdictions across the nation, Yates County has felt the scourge of opioids and other illicit drugs. Too many lives have been lost and too many families have been shattered by this epidemic. Across the state and across the nation, this trend shows few signs of abating. Here in Yates County, our sheriff, our public health director, and community organizations such as the Yates Substance Abuse Coalition work together in this battle and are making great strides in prevention, treatment and interdiction."
Lawton said he plans to work in Yates County through the month of June and start his new California position in early July.