Ralston City Administrator Rick Hoppe has been tabbed to join the administration of Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird next year as her new Chief of Staff, the city announced Monday.
Hoppe will replace current Chief of Staff T.J. McDowell Jr., who took on the role in May of 2023 and will be leaving to pursue a new opportunity. Before serving in Raltson for five years, Hoppe served 12 years as Chief of Staff for former Lincoln Mayor Chris Beutler and also as an aide to former Lincoln Mayor Coleen Seng.
“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.”
“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.
“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.”