Hollister city administrator set to retire

Hollister's City Administrator, Rick Ziegenfuss, has announced his upcoming retirement.

Ziegenfuss began his employment with the City of Hollister in 2002. His first position within the City was Director of Economic Development. In 2003, Ziegenfuss moved into the role of Hollister City Administrator.  

Ziegenfuss has been credited with having a large part in much of the growth that Hollister has experienced over the past 23 years.

"It has indeed been my pleasure to have had the opportunity to serve the residents, businesses, guests and elected officials alongside the City of Hollister staff for the past 23 years," said Ziegenfuss. "Over that time, Hollister has evolved from a town into a city with a commitment to its stakeholders to be a relevant partner in the Tri-Lakes Region of tomorrow. I truly have enjoyed the relationships I have built during my tenure, and to share in the accomplishments we have collectively achieved."

Denise Olmstead, Hollister's Deputy City Administrator has worked side-by-side with Ziegenfuss since she began her employment with the City of Hollister.

"I have worked for the City of Hollister for almost twelve years, and in my current role as Deputy City Administrator for nine years," Olmstead noted. "I am very excited that Mr. Ziegenfuss can retire and enjoy himself. He has dedicated his life to serving others and putting the needs of our community first and now being able to spend more time with his family, traveling, and of course, catching fish, is great. It is a little tough for me to know his retirement is coming. I have had the privilege for him to be my mentor for the last several years, and the knowledge and experience that he has given me is immeasurable. Being able to learn from his leadership and to develop my own traits has been a blessing and I know that I am a better person and leader because of it."

The Hollister Board of Aldermen are accepting applications for the position of City Administrator.

Explained Olmstead, "They will close this period on Friday, December 27 at 5 p.m. At that time, they will review applications and hold interviews. They would like to have the successful candidate on board around the first of February to allow some time for training alongside Mr. Ziegenfuss and ease in the transition period."

Ziegenfuss' retirement is set for April 30, 2025.

Those interested in more information in the position of Hollister City Administrator can contact Denise at 417-337-8315 or via email at dolmstead@hollistermo.gov.

Ziegenfuss added, "I am proud of today's Hollister as a city, but most of all, I am proud of the team that has stood by and supported me on each step of my amazing journey. Now, it's time for them to have their chance for their new ideas and their energy to take Hollister and the region to the next level. It is with a great deal of confidence and anticipation that I am looking forward to seeing their leadership build tomorrow's Hollister. I am also looking forward to the next chapter in my life: fish to be caught, travel destinations to be visited. Once again, my heartfelt gratitude to all who have made my last 23 years a rewarding career."

Of Ziegenfuss' retirement, Hollister Mayor Lamar Patton noted, "The Board (of Aldermen) is appreciative beyond words of his 23 years of service to the citizens of Hollister. As a community, we hope to spend the appropriate time in the coming months to show that appreciation."