Folsom bids farewell to retiring city manager Andersen

The Folsom community bid farewell last week to retiring City Manager Elaine Andersen, celebrating her remarkable career and deep connection to the city. Andersen retired this month after two decades with the city in various positions. Friends, family, city staff and other dignitaries gathered for a heartfelt tribute to Andersen's leadership during her last City Council meeting Dec. 10. "The city couldn't have been in better hands," said former City Manager Martha Lofgren. Andersen's public service career spans more than 35 years, including 20 years with Folsom. Andersen served in various high-profile positions during her tenure with the city, becoming city manager in 2018. Andersen has been a Folsom resident for 33 years with husband Jay and family. Andersen's tenure as Folsom boss included leading the city through rocky financial straits, the COVID-19 pandemic, the changeover to district elections and the momentous development of Folsom Ranch south of Highway 50. "Watching her lead with such grace and determination has been inspiring. I've always been proud to say, 'My mom is the city manager of my hometown,' " said her visiting son, Ryan. "I am constantly in awe of the way you lead with grace and strength on a day-to-day basis," said daughter Paige, speaking on Zoom from Santa Cruz. "Elaine Andersen is one of the top executive managers I have ever worked with," said Folsom City Councilperson Mike Kozlowski, explaining that as chief of staff, she managed a staff of more than 400 and a budget of more than $250 million a year. "No small task," he added. "I'm especially grateful to Elaine for her exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic," said Mayor Sarah Aquino. "With her steady hand at the wheel, City Hall remained open." "Your ability to handle complex issues with such grace is inspiring, and I'm grateful to have had the chance to work with you, even briefly," said new council member Justin Raithel. "You've been one of the most responsive city managers that we've had, and I really appreciate all the work you've done to keep residents informed," said newly elected City Councilperson Barbara Leary. Andersen thanked individual council members, staff and department heads, saying, "All city employees, you are extraordinary, and many of you are so unsung." Some praised Andersen's approach of kindness and empathy. "It doesn't make you a strong leader to be unkind. Know that it doesn't somehow make you a weak leader to be kind," Andersen advised.