Contra Costa Animal Services (CCAS) Director Beth Ward will leave her position on Jan. 19, as her family is moving out of the state, according to the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. Ward has held the position since November 2015.
In a statement, Ward said ongoing health concerns in her family prompted the decision to move closer to them.
The Board will soon start recruiting for a new director for CCAS, a department formed in 1959 to care for, shelter and re-house homeless, abandoned and lost animals. Details about the recruitment process will be made available in the coming weeks, according to CCAS.
Ward called the decision to step down difficult because of the “work we’ve achieved over the last eight years.”
“I’m filled with immense gratitude for the hard work and commitment of our staff, volunteers, and the community who have helped CCAS achieve significant milestones that have improved the lives of people and animals in Contra Costa County,” said Ward. “The collaborative spirit and tireless dedication of our team have created a lasting impact, and I leave with a sense of pride in what we have accomplished together.”
Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors Chair John Gioia said Ward’s leadership led to “commendable improvements” to CCAS.
Prior to her role at CCAS, Ward served as vice president for community alliances at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, and as the director of animal care at the Peninsula Humane Society.
