Melissa Cregan speaks before the Fresno County Board of Supervisors. Photo via Fresno County

Fresno County officials didn’t have to look far to find their new commissioner/sealer of weights and measures.

During its meeting Tuesday night, the Board of Supervisors appointed Melissa Cregan as permanent head of the department, replacing previous Commissioner/Sealer Les Wright, who retired in late January.

Cregan was appointed as his interim replacement until Tuesday’s unanimous vote.

“Commissioner Cregan holds a [bachelor of science degree] in animal science from UC Davis and brings 30-plus years of experience in livestock and 12 years in civil service leadership,” states a press release issued by her department.

Cregan is a former inspector and later deputy agricultural commissioner for Madera County. About six years ago, she was hired as a deputy ag commissioner for Fresno County over the Pest Detection and Exclusion Division. As Wright’s retirement loomed, Cregan was promoted to assistant ag commission/sealer and then named the interim department head after he retired.

Before Tuesday’s vote, Chief Administrative Officer Jean Rousseau said a committee of local agriculture industry members who helped vet the job candidates recommended Cregan for the job.

“We had a strong candidate field, and she prevailed,” he added.

“I think we’re very lucky to have you, and welcome aboard — officially,” said Buddy Mendes, the board’s vice chairman.

“I think the county has a really good future, I think the department has a really good future, and I’m happy to be a part that,” Cregan told the board.