Okaloosa County Administrator Ernie Padgett has submitted his resignation after 18 months on the job. Padgett said he’s leaving because, after two budget cycles, he and his wife, Lydia, are ready for a change of pace.
In a letter to county commissioners Wednesday, he said his departure would be effective Oct. 1. County commissioners expressed surprise and disappointment at Padgett’s announcement.
Padgett, who underwent a quintuple bypass in September 2013, said health was not a factor in his decision to leave.
Padgett said he and his staff are focused on crafting a progressive county budget that will secure funding for even a small level of storm water upgrades.
After Padgett leaves, he and his wife plan to do some traveling, including visiting friends in Australia.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: County administrator resigns