Lynette Jacoby has been appointed by the Johnson County Board of Supervisors as the new social-services coordinator for county’s Human Services Department. Jacoby will formally take her position on July 21.

The Coralville resident, who has served as the program director with United Action for Youth in Iowa City since 1995, said she is excited about the new opportunity to work with various organizations in the community.

"I think the position is just a perfect match for me," she said.

Some of her main duties will include overseeing social-services programs such as human service block grants and general assistance as well as interacting with a number of local organizations. Jacoby said she plans to meet with the Board of Supervisors and department staff before specifying particular initiatives.  

Jacoby’s predecessor, Amy Correia, had served as social-services coordinator for five years; she recently stepped down.

Supervisor Janelle Rettig said she was in search of an applicant who was detail-oriented but retained the caring nature of a social worker, like Correia.

Jacoby has experience with administrative functions including grant writing and compiling annual reports, which made her an ideal candidate for the position, Rettig said.

"We’re leaving social services in good hands," she said.

—by Katie Heine