Branson hires city administrator

Branson has a new city administrator in place after the ousting of its former leader in the spring.

Mayor Larry Milton at a news conference yesterday introduced Cathy Stepp as the new city administrator.

“I have lived in Branson for nine years now and have been deeply moved by its unique and rich culture," Stepp said in a news release. "I am excited to continue to preserve our traditions while expanding growth opportunities, building relationships and keeping it all transparent to ensure our staff is accountable to the taxpayers."

Stepp's past experience includes a stint as regional administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Great Lakes region for nearly three years. There, she was responsible for more than 1,000 employees, as well as oversight of environmental protection programs in six states and some $300 million in grants for water restoration projects. She also has worked as cabinet secretary for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Her LinkedIn profile indicates she served as executive director of H2Ozarks for around two years through April, and she’s been a city of Branson Planning Commission member for a year and a half.

Stepp succeeds five-year City Administrator Stan Dobbins, who was fired by the Branson Board of Aldermen in April, according to past reporting, amid an exodus of key city employees as new board members settled into their roles.

Branson City Clerk Lisa Westfall served as acting city administrator while a search process led by consulting firm Baker Tilly US LLC was conducted, according to the release.