Hollister City Council Monday appointed longtime city employee Geri Johnson as the next treasurer.
The City of Hollister held an open application process for the position after former Treasurer Cecilia Rios moved out of the city. The city treasurer can be elected by the public or appointed by the city council. Council members chose to appoint someone in order to avoid an expensive special election.
The treasurer’s primary job is to sign city checks. The pay is $200 per month with health insurance benefits.
According to Johnson’s resume submitted in her application, she previously worked for the City of Hollister from 1985 to 2015. She was the city’s first full-time deputy city clerk and later the first appointed full-time city clerk. She also filled the role of city treasurer for eight years.
Johnson, alongside applicants Nancy Durham and Judi Johnson, answered questions from council members about their experience and the open position. The same questions were given to all applicants.
Mayor Ignacio Velazquez asked why Johnson was interested in the role. She responded that she knew what the job required, having previously served as city treasurer.
Vice Mayor Karson Klauer asked Johnson why she should be appointed.
“I think primarily because I’ve done it,” Johnson said. “I’m familiar with the city and it would be an easy transition for me.”
Councilman Ray Friend asked Johnson about her previous experience with the city.
“I have the dumbest question,” Friend said amidst laughs. “If we don’t know the answer to this question, we shouldn’t be sitting here.”
Johnson said she was in the city clerk’s office for 30 years and was treasurer for eight years.
After all three applicants were interviewed, the council voted 3-1 to appoint Johnson as city treasurer. Councilwoman Mickie Luna was absent from the meeting.
