Tucson Standard

On April 4, Chuck Huckelberry announced that he is officially resigning from his position of Pima County Administrator.

According to KOLD 13 News, Huckelberry is resigning because he is still recovering from a serious accident last October when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle. Ted Schmidt, who is representing Huckleberry released a statement on Huckelberry's recovery.

"He is in great health and speaks often about his eagerness to return to work," Schmidt said in a March 30 statement, according to KOLD 13 News. "As we all know, Chuck is a very strong, positive, and optimistic person, so it is not hard to understand that his improvement has led him to express to friends and County coworkers a desire to return to work at the County." 

"However, his doctors say that, while his optimism is a plus in his recovery, he should focus on his continued dedicated work with his therapists," Schmidt added. "His care team and family will continue to assess his recovery and evaluate when a return to work might be possible. Thank you to all who continue to send us your prayers and concerns for Chuck’s health."

KOLD 13 News reported that Huckelberry experienced serious injuries as a result of the accident, suffering broken bones, a punctured lung and brain injuries. Schmidt said Huckelberry is making "remarkable" progress in his rehabilitation and wishes to return to his position as County Administrator upon his recovery, but that for now he needs to focus on his recovery. 

"...Chuck and the family fully appreciate that with months of additional therapy ahead, he is unable to do the position justice at this time and out of respect for what is in the best interest of the County, which he has served so effectively and faithfully for over 40 years, it is time for him to officially resign his post," Schmidt said in a statement. "This will allow the County to continue moving forward no longer clouded by concern for his health and potential return."

Pima County Deputy Administrator Jan Lesher has been filling in as acting County Administrator and is expected to formally be appointed to the position following Huckelberry's formal resignation.