Mayor Gaylor Baird Names Rick Hoppe as Chief of Staff

Mayor Gaylor Baird Names Rick Hoppe as Chief of Staff

Published on November 04, 2024

Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird today announced that Rick Hoppe will join her administration as Chief of Staff. Hoppe is currently the Ralston City Administrator, a role he has held for the past five years. Previously, he served as Chief of Staff for former Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler for 12 years and also as an aide to former Lincoln Mayor Coleen Seng.

Hoppe will fill the role currently held by T.J. McDowell Jr., who has served as Chief of Staff since May 16, 2023, and will be leaving the role to pursue a new professional opportunity. Hoppe will start his new role as Chief of Staff on January 6, 2025.

"Rick Hoppe is a dedicated public servant with a proven track record of successful, steady leadership in Lincoln city government," Mayor Gaylor Baird said. "Rick's extensive experience and deep commitment to his hometown will serve our residents well as we advance community priorities that grow the great life for all in Lincoln."

Hoppe said he is excited to return to a role he knows well.

"The opportunity to work for a leader like Mayor Gaylor Baird and return to my hometown was too good to pass up," Hoppe said. "The Mayor's leadership is making a huge difference in the lives of our residents, whether it's fixing streets, building affordable housing, keeping our community safe, or growing our economy. It's an agenda I want to help make happen, and I am honored to serve on the Mayor's team."

McDowell will continue to serve as Chief of Staff through the remainder of this year and ensure a smooth transition.

"Serving the City I love as Chief of Staff has been a great honor," McDowell said. "I am grateful for the opportunity to work alongside Mayor Gaylor Baird and help advance her priority pillars. Supporting our city's progress and contributing to meaningful initiatives has been deeply rewarding."

Mayor Gaylor Baird said McDowell has been an invaluable part of her team.

"T.J. has been a cornerstone of our team, and I am immensely grateful for his talented leadership, wise counsel, and selfless service to our community," Mayor Gaylor Baird said. "T.J. has been instrumental in our accomplishments as a City and has been a valued partner in my administration. My entire team and I will miss him greatly."

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