Staff photo by Fritz Busch Sleepy Eye City Manager Bob Elston announced his retirement effective Dec. 18 at the Sleepy Eye City Council meeting Tuesday. The city council unanimously approved the notice. Elston has been the Sleepy Eye city manager since August 2019.

SLEEPY EYE — The Sleepy Eye City Council unanimously approved City Manager Bob Elston’s December 18 retirement notice Tuesday.

Elston, who turns 65 Dec. 13, said Dec. 18 will be his last day on the job.

“Thank you not only to the city council and mayor, but every city council and mayor I’ve had the opportunity to work for, It’s been good,” said Elston.

“It’s been an honor to serve the City of Sleepy Eye and work alongside dedicated mayors, council members, staff, community partners and residents,” he wrote in a Jan. 28 letter to Mayor Joann Schmidt and the Sleepy Eye City Council.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to support the city’s growth, lead our departments, and work to strengthen the services and infrastructure that benefit our community every day. Thank you for the trust, support, and partnership you have shown me throughout my tenure. Serving this community has been a privilege. I deeply appreciate the opportunity to contribute to the success and future of Sleepy Eye,” Elston wrote. “In the months ahead, I am committed to ensuring a smooth and effective transition. I will assist in preparing for my departure, supporting ongoing projects, and providing any resources or information necessary to help with the recruitment and onboarding of the next city manager.”

Prior to becoming city manager, he was Sleepy Eye Public Works Director for 16 years.

“We’re lucky in this town to have good governing bodies. It’s been a pleasure and will be for the next 318 days,” said Elston. “I’m thrilled to be here and thrilled to retire. I’ve been treated well.”

Before coming to Sleepy Eye in 2004, he was a Nebraska Rural Water Association Program Specialist in Wahoo, Ne. for two years and was Plainview, Ne. Utility Superintendent for four years.

Retirement approval came on a motion by Councilor Christina Andres, seconded by Gary Windschitl.