JACKSON, Wyo. — Teton County has ended its search for a Board of County Commissioners’ (BCC) administrator with its recent hiring of longtime Jackson resident Mary Cernicek.

Photo: Teton County

Current County Administrator Jodie Pond plans to retire later this year, and Cernicek will begin the new position on Aug. 31. According to a news release from Teton County, Pond will work alongside Cernicek for several months before retiring in order to ensure a smooth and comprehensive transition.

“I’m honored to step into this role and excited to serve the community that has shaped so much of my life,” Cernicek said in a statement. “Teton County has a long tradition of thoughtful, collaborative public service, and I look forward to supporting the Commissioners and working alongside staff to best serve our community.”

Cernicek has spent over 20 years with the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) as the public affairs officer and planning staff officer. Her resume with BTNF includes oversight of Forest Planning, National Environmental Policy Act processes, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), partnerships and volunteers, congressional and legislative affairs, environmental education, management of Freedom of Information Act and BTNF’s Public Affairs program. She is also certified as a Type 1 Public Information Officer for a National Incident Management Team, where she has handled communications during complex, multi-agency wildland fires.

Originally from Nashville, Tennessee, Cernicek moved to Jackson in 2000. She served as a firefighter with Jackson Hole Fire/EMS for 10 years, and has spent more than 24 years on the Teton County Weed and Pest Board, where she has served as both Chair and Vice Chair.

“Mary’s experience, leadership, and long-standing dedication to our community make her an exceptional fit for this role,” BCC Chair Mark Newcomb said in a statement. “We look forward to the energy and expertise she will bring to the County.”

Newcomb also expressed gratitude for the many years of Pond’s service: “We deeply appreciate her steady leadership and commitment to Teton County and public service.”

Monica is a Staff Reporter who studied journalism at Syracuse University and has been in the valley since 2015. She loves writing about the local food and bev scene, especially craft beer. When she’s not on the clock, you can find her paddle boarding, sewing, or whipping up a new recipe at home.