Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Appoints Michael Rossi as County Counsel

The Mendocino County Board of Supervisors announced today the appointment of Michael Rossi as the County’s new County Counsel, effective December 6, 2026.

Rossi brings nearly 30 years of legal experience in public service, with an extensive background in county government, civil litigation, and legal advisory services. He has served with the County of Santa Clara since 1996, including as Lead Deputy County Counsel since January 2016.

Throughout his career, Rossi has provided legal counsel to numerous county departments and agencies, working closely with executive leadership and elected officials on a wide range of legal and policy matters. His experience includes civil litigation, environmental protection, labor and employment law, public health, and the development of local ordinances and legislation.

In his current role as Lead Deputy County Counsel, Rossi oversees a team of attorneys and support staff responsible for advising county departments and enforcing state and local laws. He has also played a key role in emergency response efforts, including serving on Santa Clara County’s Emergency Operations Team during the COVID-19 pandemic and assisting in the development of emergency public health ordinances.

Mendocino County Board of Supervisors Chair Bernie Norvell stated, “On behalf of the Mendocino County Board of Supervisors, I am delighted to welcome Michael Rossi as our new County Counsel. Michael brings exceptional legal skill and integrity to this role, and his counsel will serve this Board and every resident of Mendocino County well.”

Rossi earned his Juris Doctor from Santa Clara University School of Law and his Bachelor of Arts in Politics, Philosophy, and Economics from Claremont McKenna College.

Rossi expressed his enthusiasm for joining Mendocino County, stating, “It is a great honor to serve the Board of Supervisors and the County in this important role.  I look forward to working with the extraordinary attorneys and professionals in the County Counsel's Office, along with the Board and County staff, to support our community.”

Rossi will officially begin serving as Mendocino County Counsel on December 6, 2026.

Download the full press release HERE.