Nevada County Appoints Toby Guevin as New Public Health Director

NEVADA COUNTY — Nevada County officials announced the appointment of Toby Guevin as Public Health Director, effective June 1. Guevin has worked in the department for seven years and has managed the Health and Wellness Division since 2022. In that role, he oversaw seven health education and direct service programs.

The Public Health Department partners with local health care providers and community-based organizations to promote community health. It delivers safety-net clinical services, including immunizations and preventive screenings. The department also collaborates with hospitals and emergency service agencies to prepare for and respond to disasters.

Guevin previously coordinated the department’s Alcohol and Other Drug Prevention and Suicide Prevention Programs. He received the Nevada County Above and Beyond Employee of the Year award in 2021 for expert guidance to businesses and residents during the COVID-19 pandemic. Before joining Nevada County in 2019, he held leadership roles in the nonprofit sector and local government in Washington state. He earned a master of social work degree from Boston University School of Social Work and now lives in Grass Valley with his wife and two children.

“After seven years with this team, it remains a privilege to work alongside people so dedicated to the health and well-being of our community,” Guevin said in a county press release. “We’ll continue to innovate and collaborate to ensure all Nevada County residents have the opportunity to thrive.” Guevin also thanked his predecessor, Kathy Cahill, who retired after serving as Public Health Director since July 2023.

Health and Human Services Agency Director Ryan Gruver highlighted Guevin’s qualifications. “Toby Guevin brings the passion for Public Health, the experience working in programs, and the relationships and connections necessary for success,” Gruver said in the release. “He is respected within the department and trusted by the many community partners with whom he’s worked over the years.”

Guevin has led initiatives including the Opioid Overdose Prevention Program, health supply vending machines, and education campaigns such as Know Overdose Nevada County, Mental Health Matters Nevada County, and Clear the Air Nevada County. He also contributed to organizational efforts that produced a new vision, mission, values, and strategic plan for the department. Those mobile health clinic partnerships earned a 2026 California State Association of Counties Challenge Award.