By: Donovan W. Mann – donovanm@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – Paxton Petersen is being named the next rec director for the City of Humboldt following council’s decision to promote her.
The City of Humboldt is hiring a new recreational director. On Monday, July 20, the Humboldt City Council approved the hiring of Paxton Petersen as the next rec director for the city. City Administrator Travis Goedken confirms the approval and talks about what makes Petersen the right candidate for the position.
Goedken says that Petersen has been with the city since 2017. According to the city administrator she was a finalist when former Rec Director Chris Shaner was hired. After not receiving the position at that time, Petersen agreed to be the administrative assistant. From there she worked her way into the rec department by being the assistant rec center manager and then rec center manager.
The city administrator does say that he believed Petersen was ready for the position in 2017, but the additional experience with the city will be beneficial. “I do think there is some value now that she’s worked in this office here at city hall” Goedken says. He says that here experience as the experience as the administrative assistant provides her a deeper understanding of the financial side with governmental fund accounting. “I think it gives here an all-around better base to build on.”
Beyond her work experience, Goedken says Petersen brings valuable intangible attributes to each position she hold. “Every position she’s held she’s been very passionate about” the administrator says. He continues by saying she does and “excellent” job of carrying out all the duties associated with the position. Her background is also suitable for recreation, having a degree in exercise science from the University of Iowa.
As previously reported by KHBT, Paxton Petersen has been serving as the interim rec director since March, following Shaner’s departure. She was one of six applicants for the position this time around but her background and experience set her apart to be named to the position by council.