Eaton County controller Connie Solby to retire Feb. 20, 2026; nearly 38 years of service

Controller Administrator Connie Solby read a letter to the board announcing her retirement effective Feb. 20, 2026, and reflected on her career serving the county. Solby thanked elected officials, department heads and county employees for years of collaboration and said the timing was right to join her husband in retirement.

During discussion colleagues corrected a number referenced in the letter: Solby’s tenure was characterized in remarks during the meeting as nearly 38 years of service. Commissioners and staff praised her role in improving financial stability and increasing transparency in county budget discussions over recent years. Several commissioners offered public thanks and acknowledged the challenges of the recent budget cycles, with remarks noting Solby’s leadership and the board’s bipartisan effort on financial issues.

No staffing or succession decisions were finalized at the committee; administrators said they would follow county hiring and transition procedures and return with next steps for executive staffing and any interim arrangements prior to Solby’s effective retirement date.