Crook named new county counsel

EL CENTRO — Imperial County has a new general counsel, again.

Sarah Sauer, who was appointed to the position in October, is resigning effective April 9. The Board of Supervisors on Thursday announced Adam Crook will be Sauer’s replacement.

Crook will assume the role effective immediately and will work with Sauer during a transition period through April 9.

In recent weeks Sauer has not been attending any of the supervisors’ meetings.

Sauer said she had no intention of leaving the position after just a few months. She had replaced Katherine Turner, who chose not to renew her contact that ended on Sept. 18.

“I am very appreciative to the Board of Supervisors and the county counsel’s office for the opportunity to have served the County of Imperial,” she said. “However, there have been some unforeseen personal circumstances that have developed requiring that I step down at this time.”

Supervisor Ray Castillo said he couldn’t say much because a successor to Sauer was chosen in closed session.

“We had a closed session to deal with that issue,” he said. “It was unexpected.”

Crook joined the county counsel’s office in 2014 as deputy county counsel, where he provided legal representation to the supervisors, county departments and special districts.

Crook continued to work his way through county counsel ranks and was appointed the assistant county counsel less than a week after Sauer was appointed in early October.

“The Board of Supervisors wishes to thank Ms. Sauer for her service to the county during the past four and a half years and are pleased to welcome Mr. Crook to his new position that he has prepared for during his time with the county.” said Supervisor Chairman Luis Plancarte.

Plancarte said he is thankful for Sauer’s commitment to the county and her willingness to assist them during this transition period.

Crook said he has been prepared for the position.

“I am honored to accept the positon of county counsel,” he said. “Sarah has been an outstanding mentor and leader in our office, and I am extremely thankful for the guidance and leadership she has provided to the county counsel’s office over the years.”

Crook said he is looking forward to work with Sauer during the transition period.