After filling the role as Hollister’s legal representative and
advisor for more than a decade, City Attorney Elaine Cass will
retire this year and likely pursue volunteer work.
Hollister – After filling the role as Hollister’s legal representative and advisor for more than a decade, City Attorney Elaine Cass will retire this year and likely pursue volunteer work.
Cass, who began as city attorney in 1994, retired officially about a year ago. She said that she has stayed on with the city part-time since then to provide continuity as new City Council members adjust to the job. The variety of issues – such as sewer, water and land issues – that she handled as Hollister’s city attorney made the job interesting and rewarding, Cass said.
“This has been a great work experience for me,” she said. “Every day there is something different.”
Those in city government who worked with Cass, 56, say they are sad to see her go. Her last day with the city will be July 7.
“I’m really going to miss Elaine. Elaine is a hard worker and she’s really dedicated to the city. I’m personally going to miss her a lot,” said Mayor Robert Scattini, calling Cass a “good friend”. “She’s very, very intelligent, a pro all the way.”
City Manager Clint Quilter said that he would miss Cass’ legal expertise and guidance.
“Elaine has been a great asset to the City of Hollister,” he said. ” On a personal note, Elaine has been a great mentor and guide to me on all matters pertaining to city government. She will be greatly missed by the organization and by me.”
Born in from Toronto, Canada, Cass attended the University of Toronto and the University of California at Berkeley where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English literature. She earned her law degree from Santa Clara University. Before coming to work as city attorney in Hollister, Cass worked for the Legal Aid Society, taught classes at her law school alma mater and worked as city attorney for Seaside for 11 years.
In her retirement, Cass said that she will likely do volunteer work for groups that help senior citizens.
“That’s what interests me, and that’s where I’m headed myself,” she said.
Cass, who lives in unincorporated Monterey County with her husband, said that the city should have no trouble replacing her because the variety of interesting issues occurring in Hollister makes it an attractive job.
Quilter said that he will discuss recruitment options for replacing Cass with the City Council at an upcoming meeting.
Luke Roney covers local government and the environment for the Free Lance. Reach him at 831-637-5566 ext. 335 or at lr****@fr***********.com
