The Peru Gazette

Christine Peters – Peru Gazette photo of January 4, 2022

The County of Clinton is proud to announce that Christine Peters has been hired as the Commissioner for the Department of Social Services (DSS). Christine Peters has served as the Director of Legal and Social Services for the County since January 2012 and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge as the new Commissioner.

“We are elated to have Christine Peters step into the role of Commissioner,” said Chairperson Mark Henry (R-Area3-Chazy.) “Christine has dedicated over 19 years to Clinton County helping families around the county receive the services they need to thrive. I have always been impressed with her ability to handle complex situations, balanced with her empathy to help those in peril. I look forward to continue working with her to address the needs of our all our residents.”

For the last ten years, Peters served as the Director of Legal Services where she not only oversaw other DSS attorneys, but assisted with Drug Court and a small caseload. She also oversaw the Child Protective, Adult Protective, Child Preventive, Adolescent Preventive and Foster Care and Adoption units. Peters has also made headway to fight human trafficking in Clinton County by coordinating trainings and programs throughout the community. Peters also sits on the Child Advocacy Center’s multidisciplinary team and the steering committee for Substance-Abuse Prevention and Recovery of Clinton County while also working with schools regarding trauma-informed schooling.

“As the chairperson for the Children and Family Services Committee I have been privileged to work with Christine over the course of my term,” said Rick Potiker (R-Area 5-Plattsburgh.). “Christine’s compassion for her clients truly shines, and her ability to advocate for their needs to the legislature is unmatched. I am proud to continue working with her to help support adults and children alike, in need.” 

 “Christine constantly works hard to help not just the families that walk through our doors, but her colleagues as well,” said Mike Zurlo, County Administrator.  “I am very pleased to welcome her to our management team. I’ve always admired her open-door policy and her desire to empower both clients and employees. She is a true asset to our County and I am confident she will build upon the success of our outgoing Commissioner, John Redden.”

In addition to her time with Clinton County where she began as a Social Services Attorney in 2004, Peters was an Americorps intern at the Legal Aid Society of Northeastern New York, and maintained a private practice in Plattsburgh from 2001 until 2004. Peters graduated from SUNY Plattsburgh in 1997 and graduated from Vermont Law School in 2000.  A Peru native, Peters is proud to call the North Country her home with husband, Benjamin and two children, Greyson and Mallory.