Ian Coyle’s last day as Livingston County Administrator was December 31. Photo provided by Livingston County
After more than 16 years of outstanding service to the residents of Livingston County, Ian M. Coyle served his last day as county administrator on December 31, 2024.
Last year, Coyle informed the board of supervisors that he would not seek reappointment following the expiration of his current term, instead opting to pursue other interests related to public administration. Originally hired by the county’s board of supervisors in 2008, he leaves behind an inspiring legacy as a dedicated public servant, mentor, and friend to many throughout the county.
In announcing his departure, Coyle outlined the strong current state of Livingston County and thanked county staff for their support over the years.
“I pride myself on being the best county administrator I could be and to never accept anything less than forward-thinking progress and service excellence in our operations,” he said. “I am happy to know that as my impending departure comes closer, we still have over $4 million in ARPA funds at our disposal to carry out transformative initiatives. We have a broadband program to bring high-speed internet to thousands of homes in the county. We have a strong financial profile and we have a reputation for progressive, creative and innovative solutions. We have great leaders at the managerial level, strong reserves, a working strategic plan and a five-year capital improvement plan. These accomplishments were a true collective team effort and one I was happy and appreciative to be a part of for over 16 amazing years.”
Throughout his tenure, Coyle’s steadfast leadership guided the county through many significant changes and events, including a global pandemic. His ability to address challenges while fostering growth and promoting forward-thinking governance saw Livingston County make historic investments in infrastructure, medical services, and capital improvement projects. As administrator, Coyle helped the county to secure hundreds of millions of state and federal dollars to support key initiatives like the expansion of emergency medical services to underserved areas, enhancement of the county’s emergency operations center, and the deployment of high-speed, affordable internet across the county as part of Light Up Livingston.
Reflecting on Coyle’s time with the county, Board of Supervisors Chair David LeFeber expressed gratitude for his expertise and professionalism.
“Ian’s leadership and ability to effectively communicate and remain transparent with the board were second to none,” he said. “He consistently played a key role in navigating difficult decisions and always made sure we thoroughly considered all possibilities before choosing the best course of action for the county. The progress the county has made in areas like emergency medical services, infrastructure, and community renewal is a direct result of his thoughtful leadership. On behalf of the board and a grateful county, I thank him for his many years of service and wish Ian all the best in his future endeavors.”
Under Coyle’s guidance, the county also made significant strides in community revitalization. He played an outsized role in the creation of the Livingston County Landbank Corporation, which has worked to redevelop abandoned or vacant properties back to productive use to boost local economies. Additionally, Coyle prioritized recreation, improving the county-owned Al Lorenz Park and supporting the establishment of the annual Family Fest celebration there.
He also remained focused on staff wellbeing as county administrator, continuously championing mental health supports and mindfulness initiatives aimed at fostering a positive and productive environment for county employees.
Coyle’s influence extended far beyond the borders of Livingston County. He advocated for the region at the state and federal levels as an active member of several professional organizations, including the International City/County Management Association and National Association of Counties. He also served as a board member of the National Association of County Administrators, the Finger Lakes Area Counseling and Recovery Agency, and the New York State City-County Management Association.
As he prepared to step down, Coyle reflected on the personal and professional impact of his time as county administrator.
“This job was more than a job for me, it was the position of a lifetime,” he explained. “We raised our family here and I am so proud to have been a small part of the successes of this amazing county government. I will forever be a member of Team LivCo and I am excited to watch for what is in store next from this incredible group of public servants.”
Coyle’s successor, current Deputy County Administrator David Pribulka, will officially take on the role of county administrator beginning January 1, 2025, following the succession plan implemented by county leadership.
“I’m confident that the county will continue to thrive under David’s leadership,” said LeFeber. “Ian has left the county in a strong position with a solid financial profile, a dedicated team, and a roadmap to follow for continued progress and success.”
