Holden taps chief of staff

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Mike Hartmann, the state's chief administrator who served as the top aide for two previous governors, was named Monday as Gov. Bob Holden's chief of staff.

Hartmann, who served as chief of staff for Democratic Govs. Roger Wilson and Mel Carnahan, will replace Julie Gibson, who is taking a job as a consultant for the state Democratic Party. Hartmann also served as Carnahan's deputy chief of staff from 1996 to 2000.

No date has been set for Hartmann's transition, but the change probably won't take place until a replacement is identified for Hartmann as the commissioner of the Office of Administration, said Holden spokesman Jerry Nachtigal.

Carol Gilstrap, Holden's deputy chief of staff, will serve as interim chief of staff beginning Nov. 1, when Gibson leaves.

Holden, meanwhile, said he was looking forward to continuing his relationship with Hartmann.

"I've known Mike for many years and I'm very pleased that he will be leading my staff," Holden said. "Mike's extensive knowledge of all facets of state government will be a tremendous asset. He will be at the forefront in leading my legislative agenda during the 2002 session."

Hartmann said he was prepared for many challenges when the Legislature begins meeting in January.

"We've got a lot of difficult budget issues and obviously we've got to be conscious of security and public safety issues that are on people's minds right now," Hartmann said.

In his current position, Hartmann, 49, has been the point man for implementing Holden's executive order on collective bargaining.

He has also led state contract negotiations regarding a new basketball arena at the University of Missouri.

Hartmann, of Columbia, previously served in the Economic Development Department as the director of administration.

On Carnahan's staff, Hartmann was also a top aide on transportation issues and served along with Holden on a special transportation commission that recommended a state sales tax increase.