4.3 SR 08-19-2024The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
City Council
Item Number
4.3
Meeting Date
August 19, 2024
Prepared By
Lauren Wipper, Human Resources Manager
Item Description
Hire Community Event Center Manager
Reviewed by
Joe Stremcha
Cal Portner
Tina Allard
Action Requested
Approve, by motion, the hiring of Katie Harstad to the position of Community Event Center Manager
effective September 23, 2024.
Background/Discussion
With the reorganization of the Furniture and Things Community Event Center, we went to market to fill this
position. We received 62 applications and interviewed nine candidates. Following second interviews,
leadership assessments, and background and reference checks, we recommend Katie Harstad for the position.
Ms. Harstad is currently the general manager and event operations manager at Rockwoods Restaurant, Bar,
Event Center, & Catering, where she has worked since 2006. She is a member of the Elk River Rotary Club
and was this year's Chair for Taste of Elk River. She holds a bachelor's degree in business and marketing with
a minor in management and entrepreneurship from the University of Minnesota Carlson School of Business.
Ms. Harstad will start at step B of pay grade 4E. All pay and benefits will be consistent with city policy.
Financial Impact
This is a budgeted position.
Mission/Policy/Goal
The Elk River Mission
Attachments
None
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