Rockingham County accepts jail superintendent Jason Henry's resignation; effective date clarified

The Rockingham County Board of Commissioners accepted the resignation of Superintendent Jason Henry, who said he will retire at the end of February after five years leading the jail. The board clarified the effective date during the meeting and approved the resignation following brief discussion and an amendment to the date.

Commissioner Tom Brody announced Henry’s retirement and moved to accept the resignation. Board members and department heads praised Henry’s leadership, citing his work on rehabilitation programs, the honor guard, education programs for incarcerated individuals and his role on opioid abatement committees. Commissioners highlighted Henry’s work establishing a 90‑day community corrections residential program and other treatment initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism.

During discussion, one commissioner initially voted against the motion when the effective date needed clarification; the board amended the resignation date (discussion recorded) and subsequently voted to accept the resignation. Commissioners expressed appreciation for Henry’s five years of service, wished him well and noted plans to recruit and support a successor to avoid disruption during budget season and the community corrections program start-up.

What happens next: The board approved the resignation and intends to appoint or hire a successor; commissioners directed staff to consider operational and staffing plans tied to the leadership transition.