Sara Servadio has been appointed the new commissioner of the Department of Mental Health, Social Services & Youth Bureau by Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne, in the wake of longtime Commissioner Mike Piazza’s retirement Nov. 9. Her appointment is pending approval by the County Legislature, which is scheduled to vote on the matter Dec. 5.
This promotion follows a distinguished tenure by Servadio 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,” said Byrne. “I am confident that under her guidance, the many operations she oversees, especially our mental health services, will thrive.”
Servadio brings more than 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 February 2022, previously working at various non-profits as well as numerous assignments in Westchester County’s Department of Community Mental Health.
“I’m committed to ensuring our department remains a steadfast resource for Putnam County residents,” said Servadio. “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. 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 by Byrne after an 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,” said Sayegh, R-Mahopac Falls. “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.”