OWENSVILLE — The City of Owensville is beginning a planned transition among several City Hall positions as City Administrator Randy Blaske prepares to retire next year.

Blaske’s retirement will become effective June 30, 2027, and the city will begin transitioning employees into their new roles Jan. 1, 2027. The six-month transition period will allow staff members to train for their new responsibilities before officially assuming their positions July 1, 2027.

Peggy Farrell, who currently serves as city clerk, office manager and human resources director, will transition into the city administrator position.

Kara Meyer, currently deputy city clerk, utility billing clerk and accounts payable clerk, will move into the city clerk position.

Christine Thompson, currently the utility cashier clerk and receptionist, will transition into the deputy city clerk position while also taking over utility billing and accounts payable duties.

The city has also hired Sarah Nadler to replace Thompson as utility cashier clerk and receptionist. Nadler has already begun training for the position.

City officials said each employee will have approximately six months of training before officially assuming their new duties, providing continuity as Owensville prepares for Blaske’s retirement and the resulting changes in City Hall leadership.

Owensville City Administrator Randy Blaske said he was pleased to see employees advancing within the city and hopes that trend continues.

“I certainly want to congratulate everybody who’s moving up, and we’d like to continue the trend of promoting from within,” Blaske said. “As long as people apply themselves and want to move up, that’s what we’re trying to establish for the future. I think we’ve got a good team, and I’m expecting a smooth transition and for business to carry on as usual without me.”

Blaske said taking on the administrator’s position had initially required some adjustment, but he found the experience rewarding.

“It’s no secret I was a little hesitant at first because it didn’t exactly match my skill set, but it’s been fun,” Blaske said. “It’s been rewarding to give back to the community where I grew up. I was born and raised here, and I think we’ve had some good accomplishments.”