MONTEREY – The end of an era is approaching for Monterey, as longtime City Manager Hans Uslar has revealed his intention to retire in December after almost three decades of service with the city.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the city stated that Uslar will remain until the end of the year, assisting in the search for a replacement and supporting with certain final financial decisions prior to his departure.
Uslar mentioned that he believes it’s time to take more breaks and spend quality time with his family and friends following his long service to the city.
It’s the end of my active work years,” Uslar stated. “I’ve had a wonderful career in the city of Monterey, and I’ve worked all my life. Now I simply want to take some time off and relax, enjoying the next stage of my life.
Born and raised in Germany, Uslar took a courageous step in 1997 by moving to America and seeking employment while studying English. He answered a classified ad in the Monterey Herald and was hired as a management analyst for the city. This position marked the beginning of a career path that eventually led him to various leadership roles in public works and culminated in his appointment as city manager in 2018.
I appreciate the chance I had,” Uslar stated. “I was fortunate that the public works director chose me back then, and I was able to demonstrate my abilities. Those first six months were quite an experience, going through the hiring process, all in a language that was new to me.
Throughout his time in office, Uslar supported significant projects including the city’s Fiscal Health Response Plan, housing and rent aid programs, the purchase of the Old Capitol Site, and efforts to address the pandemic. With his guidance, the city improved its financial reserves and maintained the operations contract for the Presidio of Monterey.
Within the organization, Uslar concentrated on employee morale and career growth.
Our city workers embody the finest aspects of public service,” Uslar stated. “I have always felt profoundly honored to collaborate with such an outstanding group.
What he will miss the most, he stated, are the connections.
You witness their (city employees’) children maturing. I spoke with an employee today whose son is now pursuing a PhD in molecular biology. I’ve known him since he was young,” Uslar said. “I’ll miss being part of a large organization.
He has received a large amount of support via emails and social media, with people expressing good wishes and leaving kind messages.
Uslar states that he plans to stay on the Monterey Peninsula following his retirement.
He is concentrating on addressing the city’s long-term financial shortfall prior to leaving office.
“Our group is collaborating to present suggestions to the city council, so when the new city manager arrives, many of those issues will have been resolved,” Uslar stated.
The Monterey City Council is set to start looking for his replacement in the near future. Uslar mentioned he is eager for “a smooth and efficient transition.”
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