PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Sara Servadio, deputy commissioner of Putnam’s Department of Mental Health, Social Services & Youth Bureau, has been tapped to replace longtime Commissioner Mike Piazza, who retired Nov. 9.
Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne said Servadio’s promotion would follow a distinguished tenure as deputy commissioner and comes at a crucial time as the department continues its vital mission to enhance the well-being of all residents.
“Sara Servadio is a consummate professional who brings a level of dedication and leadership that is unmatched in her field,” Byrne said in an announcement about the appointment. “I am confident that under her guidance the many operations she oversees, especially our mental health services, will thrive.”
Servadio’s appointment is expected to be confirmed by the legislature Dec. 5, he said.
Servadio brings over 20 years of experience in case management and the mental health field to her new role as commissioner. She began her work as Deputy Commissioner in Putnam County in February of 2022. Prior to that, her career included work at various non-profits as well as numerous assignments in Westchester County’s Department of Community Mental Health.
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong foundation established by Mike Piazza, but we have a lot of work ahead of us,” Servadio said. “County Executive Byrne has made clear that we’re going to transform and expand the services we offer; we’re working to establish a Mental Wellness Stabilization Center, we’ve created a Director of Mental Health position, and we’re establishing a mental health co-response team with the Sheriff’s Office.”
Servadio was appointed after a competitive interview process was conducted by a selection committee that included Legislator Amy Sayegh, who chairs the Legislature’s Health Committee; Deputy County Executive Jim Burpoe; Director of Personnel Paul Eldridge; Deputy Director of Personnel Adrienne Iasoni; and Executive Director of Putnam/Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center Ann Ellsworth.
“Sara has proven to us during her tenure that she is the perfect person to fill Mike Piazza’s very big shoes,” Sayegh said. “As Commissioner, she will be leading the team responsible for the well-being of some of our most vulnerable residents, and I’m confident they are in good hands.”
The Department of Mental Health, Social Services and Youth Bureau, together with its provider agencies, develops a comprehensive local plan for services annually that identifies the needs and gaps in the system of care for individuals with mental illness, developmental disabilities and those that are dealing with alcohol and other drug abuse.
Mental health was identified as an area of concern for Putnam County at the summit in 2022 examining the latest community health assessment.