Steamboat Springs Honors Outgoing City Manager Gary Suiter

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. — The city of Steamboat Springs proclaimed Tuesday, Jan. 21, as “Gary Suiter Day” to honor the outgoing city manager, who retired after nearly nine years of service. Suiter, who became city manager in June 2016, was celebrated for his leadership, dedication, and impact on the community.

“You have made a mark on this community, and we certainly appreciate everything that you have done,” said City Council President Gail Garey during the final council meeting of Suiter’s tenure. “This is just a small testament to the lives that you have touched and all that you have done.”

Suiter, who announced his retirement last fall, expressed gratitude to the city council, staff, and citizens during his farewell remarks. “To the city council members, past and present … your support has been unbelievable through my tenure here,” he said. He also praised the city staff, calling them “talented, dedicated, and committed,” and highlighted the importance of community involvement in Steamboat Springs’ success.

Former council member Kathi Meyer recalled Suiter’s commitment to making the council successful, while Finance Director Kim Weber thanked him for his guidance during periods of leadership turnover. “Gary, you mastered managing down, up, and out,” Weber said. “You make every city employee, citizen, and council member feel valued.”

Deputy City Manager Tom Leeson will serve as interim city manager while the city reviews applications for the permanent role. Council members are expected to discuss candidate recommendations during an executive session on Feb. 4.

Suiter, who previously served as city manager in Snowmass Village, reflected on his career and the challenges of working in resort communities. He expressed concern about the impact of wealth and outside investment on Steamboat Springs’ culture and authenticity. “I’m concerned about Steamboat losing its soul,” Suiter said. “We need to do everything we can to fight to preserve that through the built environment and through the people environment.”

As he transitions to private life, Suiter plans to remain in Steamboat Springs, where he hopes to see efforts to preserve the town’s unique character and support local businesses and workers.