Madera County Chief Administrator Jay Varney is retiring after more than 40 years in law enforcement and government administration. Madera County images

Madera County Chief Administrator Jay Varney has announced his retirement after more than four decades in public service, including as Madera County sheriff.

Varney was appointed in 2020 by the Madera County Board of Supervisors as top executive over 25 county departments, according to a news release. Prior to that, he served as the elected sheriff from 2014 to 2020.

Under Varney’s direction, Madera County – with an annual operating budget of more than a half billion dollars –  has experienced significant growth in revenue, housing and businesses, according to the release.

Among Varney’s achievements, he led the County in completing several  capital projects, including the Madera County Justice Center, Fire Station No. 3, and a cooperative, grant-funded project with the North Fork Mono upgrading Fire Station No. 11.

He also guided County staff through COVID and the economic downturn triggered by the pandemic. Madera County also played a role in the reopening of Madera Community Hospital, with supervisors approving $500,000 in assistance for the hospital in July 2023 to keep it in operating shape. 

Madera Community Hospital reopened in March.

“It’s been an honor to serve the Board of Supervisors and residents of Madera County. I want to thank the Board for entrusting me with this vital  role for the past five-plus years.” Varney said.

Varney also served with the Dallas Police Department and Lansing, Michigan Police Department before becoming police chief and city administrator for the City of Chowchilla. 

Madera County has opened a nationwide search for Varney’s successor.