Todd Hollenbeck will continue a 24-year career with Mesa County as the new county administrator.

The Mesa County Commissioners promoted Hollenbeck to his latest role to succeed Pete Baier, who expects to retire in January.

“We are confident that Todd Hollenbeck will continue to lead Mesa County with the same dedication demonstrated throughout his career,” said Mesa County Commissioner Bobbie Daniel. “His deep understanding of county operations and his commitment to the community make him the ideal candidate for this role.”

The promotion follows a national search and the evaluation of 16 applications.

Since joining Mesa County in April 1999, Hollenbeck has worked in several leadership positions, including regional transportation planning director and community development director. He’s worked as deputy county commissioner since April 2021.

In that role, he oversaw more than 200 county employees and managed a $45 million annual budget across five departments. He also was involved in capital projects worth a total of more than $40 million and real estate acquisitions valued at more than $13 million. In addition, he guided Mesa County Public Health through a leadership transition.

Baier plans to retire effective Jan. 4, concluding a 28-year career with Mesa County.

Baier was appointed county administrator in 2019. He joined the county in 1996 as an engineer and engineering director, then worked 20 years as public works director.

As public works director, Baier was involved in such projects as the 29 Road bridge and 30 Road underpass. He was field operations manager for the West Salt Creek landslide.

As county administrator, he helped implement a new strategic plan and work on such projects as the 29 Road interchange and Palisade Plunge. During his tenure, he worked for 13 different county commissions.

“I am honored to have had the opportunity to serve Mesa County for nearly three decades,” Baier said. “I am confident that Todd Hollenbeck will continue to build on our progress, and I look forward to seeing the county thrive under his leadership.”