By MIKE COURSON
Great Bend Post
Matt Patzner has worn many hats during his eight years as a Barton County employee. And the hats are getting bigger. For the past 14 months, Patzner has served as the county director of operations. Wednesday morning, the Barton County Commission went one step further by promoting him to county administrator. Commission Chair Shawn Hutchinson said Patzner is a team player and deserves the position.
"Having worked under elected officials alongside other administrative employees, he knows the daily, monthly, and annual work that's required to keep the business of the county rolling," Hutchinson said. "He's bright enough and involved enough to spearhead the special events that happen. I enjoy working with Matt, and I'm delighted to watch his career grow with Barton County. With his open-door policy and willingness to help everyone, he will thrive as Barton County's next administrator."
Commissioner Donna Zimmerman, who spent 26 years as the county clerk, helped bring Patzner into his first position with the county. She said she's glad he chose to come back to his hometown to work, and Commissioner Barb Esfeld seconded the sentiment.
"I, too, being the appraiser and working with Matt from the day he came on, I was very impressed with first his age and how mature," Esfeld said. "Now, as I look back, everything you've taken on, I'm just thankful you came back to your hometown and are staying here. I'm happy to have him as well. He's a definite blessing to our county."
Patzner thanked the commission, county employees, and elected officials for making his job a little easier.
"I just want to say this is a great group of commissioners to work with," he said. "I really appreciate how involved all of you are. That makes it fun to come into work knowing you're making a difference. I can't say enough about our department heads, our staff. This is just a great place to be. I'm really happy, and I really appreciate your vote of confidence in me."