Could the fourth county administrator in almost as many years be the charm for Franklin County? 

The county has recruited GMP Consultants of Snoqualmie to conduct the search for its next top executive, roughly eight months after its last full-time administrator resigned following conflict and controversy with the county Board of Commissioners. 

The position profile posted by GMP says the board is seeking “an experienced leader who prioritizes communication, positive working relationships and stability for the county organization” and “an individual that can build deep and meaningful relationships with elected officials, partner agencies, staff and the community-at-large is a top priority.” 

In addition to noting the frequent turnover in administrators in recent years, the profile lists additional challenges facing the county, including workplace culture, collaboration with other local agencies and governments, revenue not keeping pace with cost increases and the lack of a unified strategic plan. 

Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in public administration or a related field at a minimum and ideally a master’s degree along with at least five years of professional level government administration. The salary range is listed as between $145,000 to $200,000 per year. Review of applications is expected to start March 9. 

The county’s most recent administrator, Mike Gonzalez, resigned in June 2024, after he made complaints that commissioners and the county’s auditor were pressuring him to withhold payments to a county contractor managing the HAPO Center. The complaints led to a criminal investigation by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. 

Eric Johnson has served as interim county administrator since Gonzalez’s departure.