Date in office: 1999-2009
After more than two decades in the public sector, Terry Schutten joined Sacramento County as the County Executive in June of 1999. During his tenure, Schutten paved the way for innovative services and programs while promoting economic growth and prosperity for Sacramento through the expansion of the Sacramento International Airport and passage of Measure A. Schutten came to the County from Ramsey, Minnesota, where he served as the County Manager from 1986-1999.
Prior to his position as County Manager, Schutten served as County Administrator for Lehigh County in Pennsylvania for eight years and Project Director of the New County Center for the National Association of Counties in Washington D.C. While serving as the Project Director, Schutten helped state associations work with counties to improve their personnel, financial and management systems. Additionally, Schutten served as the Executive Director of the Central Arizona Association of Governments that included two counties and 13 cities where he focused on regional planning and economic opportunity.
Born in Dundee, Illinois, Schutten received his B.A. in Social Sciences from San Jose University and after graduation, Schutten went into the Peace Corps for 2 ½ years where he served in Nigeria, building a recreation center for kids in the city of Abeokuta. Upon his return, Schutten obtained his Master of Public Administration from University of Arizona.
Schutten held memberships in several organizations, including the International City and County Management Association (ICMA) and the Board of Governors for ICMA University. He is a current member of the Greenstone Country Community Service District.
Since leaving Sacramento County in December 2009, Schutten served as the Executive Director of the California Association of County Executives.
