City of Forest City hires new City Administrator/Clerk

August 30, 2016

FOREST CITY, IA – The Forest City City Council has selected Barb Smith, currently the City Manager/Clerk in Laurens, Iowa, as the new City Administrator/Clerk. She will begin her duties in Forest City in October of this year.

Smith has a strong background in city operations, financial management and community involvement. She holds a Bachelors degree in accounting and business administration from AIB College of Business in Des Moines and a Masters degree in business administration with an emphasis in accounting from Bellevue University. “Barb has the education, enthusiasm and skill set to guide our many community opportunities and projects,“ said Mayor Barney Ruiter.

“I am honored to be chosen as the new City Administrator/Clerk,” Smith said. “The City of Forest City is an outstanding city with a dedicated and passionate city council, staff, and community. I look forward to working with them to sustain and create a vibrant and successful community.”

Prior to her position in Laurens, IA, Barb has worked at Walmart, Electronic Engineering, Co, Fort Dodge United State Bowling Congress Women’s Bowling Association, and United Community Health Center. She has also served as Director of Lauren’s Chamber of Commerce, Vice Chair of the Pocahontas Economic Development Corporation and the Chair of Laurens Hometown Pride Committee.

The City of Forest City is replacing former City Administrator Mac Tilberg, who left in May of 2016 after two years in the community. Since that time, city employee Val Monson has served as Interim City Clerk. Betty Buress, Finance Clerk, has served as Interim Deputy Clerk. “We sincerely appreciate the dedication and hard work that Val and Betty have put forth, as it allowed city operations to continue during this hiring process,” said Mayor Ruiter.