Jefferson County commissioners Tuesday unanimously backed Ralph Schell as the new county administrator, responsible for balancing an annual operating budget of more than $488 million.
Schell replaces Jim Moore, who was fired Thursday without a severance package, according to spokeswoman Kathryn Heider.
Schell, who has worked for the county for 12 years, left his position as director of community resources and open space last week to assume the role of interim administrator. As administrator, he will make $150,000 a year.
Amy P. Ito, manager of planning and development for open space, has replaced Schell as acting director.
Schell said he was looking forward to the new opportunity and providing "more effective leadership."
