City Administrator
The City Administrator is appointed by the Mayor to manage the city’s daily business, to supervise all city departments and offices, and to carry out council’s policies by directing the work of city staff. She or he enforces the laws of the city, informs the mayor and council on important matters relating to municipal government functions, and directs the preparation of the city’s budget.
Rob Gelder
Phone: (360) 394-9756
Fax: (360) 779-5112
Email: rgelder@cityofpoulsbo.com
Biography
Rob moved to Poulsbo in 2004 for work, but had discovered Little Norway years before as he gravitated to the area due to his Scandinavian heritage. After 7 years at Martha & Mary, Rob was appointed as Kitsap County Commissioner in March of 2011 and was subsequently elected 4 times and served 12 years.
Prior to serving as commissioner, Rob learned the complexity of municipal budgets as a member of the county’s budget committee. Budgets, operations, community engagement and organizational development have continued to be areas of passion and interest for Rob.
Rob continued in public service as the Assistant County Manager for Thurston County upon leaving elected office. In that role, Rob partnered with county leaders on land use and planning, emergency services, public health and social services, public works, public defense and pre trial services.
Rob has also served on the state and national levels of county association operations and advocacy.
Eager to return to his Poulsbo roots, Rob is honored to serve along side the stellar Poulsbo City staff and leadership to achieve the community’s goals and vision for the years ahead. Rob is a member of WCMA and ICMA.
The City Administrator is located at the 3rd floor of City Hall. The counter hours are 8:00 am – 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Please note we are closed for lunch from 12:15 pm – 1:15 pm daily.