Read between the lines on this one. Who said that Repola resigned? Is this a temporary change or is he finally out of here?
A seamless succession in administration
Jackie Halburnt to take over as Town Administrator [IN HIS ABSENCE]
By Becky Weller
With Randy Repola, current Estes Park town administrator, about to step down from his post in order to travel to Iraq for a position as administrative advisor, Jacqueline Halburnt is preparing to take over in his absence. Halburnt, who has been the Deputy Town Administrator since February of 2007, was officially appointed to the position at Tuesday night’s town board meeting.
“I feel honored and privileged that the board chose me,” said Halburnt. “I’m definitely looking forward to working more with the community.”
Despite the fact that Halburnt has only been in the deputy position for less than a year, many feel she has what it takes to fill Repola’s shoes.
“It’ll be a true challenge, especially replacing a person like Randy who did such a great job,” said Estes Park Mayor John Baudek. “One of the challenges will be that she’s (Halburnt) only been here less than a year. We’re looking forward to having Jackie here in the position.”
While appointments are not set in stone, Halburnt has been preparing for the town administrator position through her current post as deputy. Working directly under Repola for the last year has certainly allowed Halburnt the opportunity to learn.
“I was the Deputy Administrator in Avon for four years,” said Halburnt. “So I’m not brand spanking new at this. But I certainly never would have guessed I’d be stepping into Randy’s very big shoes this soon. And luckily I’ll be taking over an organization that knows what they’re doing.”
In regards to any future plans or ambitions as town administrator Halburnt commented on the importance of community relationships.
“Generally speaking Randy is leaving me in a really good place,” she said. “There are lots of things on our plate right now. I do really want to work on our relationship with the residents of Estes Park. Government is participatory, but we can make sure we are getting out and engaging the community.”
Another important aspect for Halburnt is her commitment to succeed despite a lack of experience.
“I will probably make mistakes,” joked Halburnt. “It’s only human nature, but I will do whatever it takes to be successful. I am really looking forward to this opportunity.”
Repola is set to step down from his duties on Dec. 21, while Halburnt will take over the reins on Jan. 1, 2008. The new administrator’s contract will run from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, at which point she will up for re-appointment. Since Halburnt’s current job title allows her to take Repola’s place in his absence, there will be no need for an interim administrator during the time between Dec. 21 and Jan. 1.
