Brianne Abbott to step down as Hillsboro SSD; Shawn Adkins appointed new SSD

Mayor Justin Harsha today announced the upcoming transition in the City of Hillsboro’s Safety and Service Director position, expressing his deep gratitude to outgoing Director Brianne Abbott for her dedicated service and leadership. Abbott will conclude her tenure on Sept. 12, 2025, after serving the city with distinction since 2020.

“Brianne Abbott has been a tremendous asset to our city government, providing steady leadership, tireless work ethic, and a strong commitment to the residents of Hillsboro,” said Mayor Harsha. “She has helped guide important city projects, navigated challenges with professionalism, and always put the community first. On behalf of the city, I thank her for her outstanding service and wish her continued success in her future endeavors.”

Mayor Harsha also announced that Shawn Adkins has been appointed as the new Safety and Service Director, effective Sept. 15, 2025.

“Shawn Adkins brings a wealth of experience in public service and infrastructure management, and I’m confident he will continue to serve our city with integrity and vision,” said Harsha. “His background and commitment to our community make him the right person to step into this important role.”

The Safety and Service Director oversees a range of critical municipal functions, including city operations, infrastructure, safety services, and public works. Mayor Harsha emphasized the importance of a smooth transition and expressed his full confidence in Adkins’ ability to take the reins and continue building on the progress made under Abbott’s leadership. 

"Serving in this role has been both an honor and an unforgettable chapter in my life," Abbott said in her resignation letter to Mayor Harsha. 

"I remember stepping into these new roles together 5.5 years ago, full of ambition and a shared vision for a better Hillsboro – one focused on economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and a higher quality of life for our citizens and visitors. As you once described it, 'a place where people want to come to work, and where your children want to return after college or other pursuits.' I believe you can confidently say that, during your tenure as Mayor, those goals have been achieved – and then some."