The Waterbury Select Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Graci Zeiger as Waterbury’s next Municipal Manager. Ms. Zeiger, selected from a field of 16 applicants spanning eight states, is scheduled to officially assume her duties in August.
The Select Board, along with a staff interview team and a community interview team, identified Ms. Zeiger’s professional background and personal style as a strong fit for Waterbury. Reviewers highlighted her interpersonal skills, collaborative approaches, and ability to quickly grasp complex issues as strengths.
Ms. Zeiger brings a demonstrated track record of uniting diverse stakeholders to achieve mutually beneficial solutions. She currently serves as a program manager for the Iowa Public Employee Retirement System and previously was a facilitator for the Iowa Department of Education. She holds a Master of Public Administration and a certified public manager certificate from Drake University, and a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Central College.
Select Board Chair Martha Staskus and Vice Chair Don Schneider expressed their excitement about Ms. Zeiger’s open communication style, budgeting experience, and ability to take on complex issues, stating, “We look forward to working with her as she brings her enthusiasm and excellent people skills to the community and establishes budgets through planning and goal setting.”
Ms. Zeiger expressed her delight about joining the Waterbury community. “The Select Board, staff, and residents on the interview committees were wonderful introductions to town and make me eager to step into the role. As Municipal Manager, I look forward to supporting our dedicated employees and working hand-in-hand with our residents to build a strong, thriving future,” she said.
At their July 7 meeting, the Select Board approved Ms. Zeiger’s contract for a three-year period, setting a start date of August 24, 2026.