Monterey County, County Administrative Office

The County Administrative Officer (CAO) is appointed by the Board of Supervisors to oversee the administration of county government and implement decisions made by that Board.

Dr. Lew Bauman has served as County Administrative Officer of Monterey County since January 2005. The CAO is the day-to-day manager of county government and represents the County and its Board of Supervisors in a variety of activities. The Administrative Office oversees the preparation, adoption, and administration of the County’s $1 billion budget and coordinates the activities of other county departments to ensure the effective accomplishment of the Board's directions and policies.

County organizational chart

The CAO's Office includes:

• Budget and Analysis
• Contracts and Purchasing
• Finance
• Fleet
• Intergovernmental and Legislative Affairs
• Office of Community Engagement and Strategic Advocacy
• Office of Emergency Services