After 26 years of dedicated service to Lassen County — including almost 11 years as an elected official — I am announcing my retirement from public office effective Oct. 31, 2025. It has been an immense privilege to serve this remarkable community and to work alongside so many committed colleagues and citizens.
I wish to directly address recent events that have prompted my decision.
Last week the County Administrative Officer chose to question my staff regarding my
He subsequently contacted me to inform me that, based on his personal assessment of my health, he intended to go to the Board of Supervisors to recommend the appointment of a new auditor/controller and reduce my salary.
These actions were both inappropriate and disrespectful, not only to me as an elected official, but also to the standards of professionalism and mutual respect that should guide our county government.
I want to assure the public that my health is, in fact, fine. I remain fully capable of fulfilling my responsibilities, and my decision to retire is not due to any incapacity.
Rather, it is based on recent circumstances that have made it clear to me that stepping aside is in the best interest of myself and the office I have held with pride.
I think it’s important for the public to know that my responsibilities also extend to overseeing the finances not only for Lassen County, but for the Lassen County schools, Lassen Community College, and numerous special districts. It is imperative that the Board of Supervisors appoint qualified successors promptly, as a minimum of 30 days is required to transition these duties effectively.
Should an appointment not be made before my departure on Nov. 1, 2025, there will be no one with the legal authority to sign checks or issue pay stubs for these entities — including Lassen County itself — or to provide continued treasury services. Such a lapse in leadership would pose a significant risk to the continuity of essential financial operations for our county and its valued institutions.
Reflecting on my career, I am proud of the legacy of integrity, transparency and diligent stewardship of public resources that my team and I have built together. Every achievement in the Treasurer/Tax Collector/Auditor/Controller’s offices has been the result of hard work, perseverance and a shared commitment to public service.
I am deeply grateful to the people of Lassen County for your trust and support throughout my years of service. Your partnership has been an enduring source of inspiration, and I am honored to have served such a resilient community.
I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to my staff. Their tireless dedication, professionalism, and passion have been instrumental in every success we have accomplished. Truly, none of this would have been possible without their unwavering support.
Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. I will always remain committed to the well-being of Lassen County and wish the very best for its continued prosperity.
Sincerely
Nancy Cardenas, Lassen County Treasurer/Tax Collector/Auditor/Controller
Source: Lassen News
