Mary Swenson has seen it all. In a career that has spanned more than 32 years, all of it with the City of Marysville, Swenson has watched the city transform from a sleepy hamlet to a bustling business and shopping destination. For much of that time, she had a direct hand in guiding the transformation.

Swenson, who has served as the city's chief administrative officer since 2001, announced her retirement in early March. Her last official day on the job is March 17.

"I think transitions are better when they happen quickly," said Swenson, explaining what seemed like a rapid decision. "The mayor and other key people have known about my plans for about a year now."

The administrator could have actually retired two years ago, but she wanted to stay until the Central Marysville Annexation was complete.

"I am leaving this job I love at the best possible time," Swenson said. "The city is in excellent shape. Every department without exception is in a great position and directed by very talented individuals. Mayor Kendall and our City Councilmembers are some of the best individuals I have had the privilege of working with, and I am confident their good work will continue to benefit the citizens of Marysville."

Swenson has helped steer the course through several big transitions for Marysville, and she counts the efforts to bring a NASCAR track to north Snohomish County as one of her more memorable achievements.

"It probably sounds strange to call that an accomplishment, since the project didn't happen," said Swenson, "but it was really the first time Marysville came to the forefront on a regional level. The city was selected as the preferred site, which gave us a lot of credibility. It has made a difference in being able to attract businesses to the area because we worked to streamline the permit process and our departments learned to mobilize quickly. It was a pivotal point for the city."

During her long tenure as the city's chief administrator, as well as the City Clerk and assistant administrator positions that preceded her rise to the top post, Swenson forged strong relationships with the Tulalip Tribes, neighboring jurisdictions, Snohomish County, state and federal lawmakers and, equally importantly, the city employees.

Mayor Dennis Kendall accepted the resignation of the chief administrator who has been his go-to person since he came into office in 2003.

"This is a significant loss for the City," said the mayor. "Mary has been a tremendous asset to Marysville, and I'll miss the counsel and guidance she provided me day in and day out. Her leadership, experience and expertise will be missed."

The City Council voted unanimously to offer the city administrator position to current Community Development Director Gloria Hirashima, who has more than 18 years of experience with the city.

"Gloria has gained a solid reputation in the region and she brings all the qualities to the job that will make her an exceptional administrator," said Kendall.

Hirashima has worked closely with Swenson over the past several years, and Swenson expressed confidence in the woman's ability to handle the job.

"Gloria did a great job on the master plans the city has adopted -- the Downtown Master Plan, Smokey Point Master Plan, Whiskey Ridge Master Plan," said Swenson. "She wrote all those, so she's well positioned to keep the momentum going on the city's economic and residential development."

It's important to understand the city's philosophy, Swenson explained. Building and maintaining great relationships within the city's departments, as well as with external partners, is critical to Marysville's success.

"I'm leaving the City in good shape," said Swenson. "Besides, I'm not going anywhere. My daughter is only 15 and still in school, so I'll be around here if anyone needs me."

But she's also looking forward to hitting the snooze button on her alarm, so don't call her before 9:00.

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