Merced County’s top administrator, County Executive Officer Raul Lomeli Mendez, is resigning, The Merced FOCUS has learned.

Josh Pedrozo, chair of the Merced County Board of Supervisors, said he received Mendez’s resignation letter two weeks ago. Mendez’s last day with the county will be May 18.

“We extend to him our warmest of wishes in all of his future endeavors, and we appreciate the fact that he’s committed to finishing strong,” Pedrozo told The Merced FOCUS.

Mendez began his role as the county’s top executive in early 2022, where he leads day-to-day operations and oversees the county’s $1.14 billion budget. He built his career working in government and came to Merced from Stanislaus County, where he was the assistant executive officer.

“It has truly been a privilege to serve as the County Executive Officer of Merced County.  I am greatly appreciative of the opportunity the Merced County Board of Supervisors extended to me to lead their organization, a team that encompasses more than 2,000 employees who dedicate themselves to benefitting the community,” Mendez said in a statement.

“During my tenure, I was able to assist with and advance important county initiatives and projects (in progress and new), as well as navigate the organization during trying times due to unforeseen emergency conditions and fiscal challenges,” he said.

It’s unclear why Mendez is leaving his post. His resignation did not come as a surprise, Pedrozo said, but he wouldn’t elaborate. Pedrozo said that to his knowledge, Mendez doesn’t have another job lined up and is looking for employment.

“With both excitement and optimism, I have elected to pursue new opportunities and build upon the wonderful experience I’ve had in Merced County,” Mendez said in the statement.

Pedrozo credited Mendez for leading the county through “some of the most challenging times,” citing the 2023 floods.

“I think that he has done a great job for the organization,” Pedrozo said. “We’re happy for him and look forward to seeing what’s next for Merced County.”

The five-member board will discuss what’s next – such as whether there will be a search for Mendez’s replacement or an interim CEO after he leaves – in closed session during Tuesday’s regular meeting, Pedrozo said.

Pedrozo and Mendez, in the county’s statement, both said they were committed to ensuring “a seamless transition” so that county services won’t be affected.

Back in August, the board extended Lomeli’s $250,000 employment contract for another year, or to January 2026. 

According to the California State Controller’s database, Mendez was the second highest-paid Merced County employee in 2024, behind the behavioral health medical director. He earned $289,000.

“I will always treasure my time in Merced County and wish to thank all of those who made it special,” Mendez said.