Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
As of April 9, Jason Hake stepped in as Lincoln County’s new Administrative Coordinator, following the departure of former coordinator Randy Scholz, who accepted the position of Chippewa County Administrator.
Prior to accepting his new position with the county, Hake oversaw all financial matters as Portage County’s Senior Financial Manager for five years, as well as business related items such as contracts and insurance matters. Prior to that he served as Portage County Payroll Coordinator.
A 2009 graduate of Viterbo University with a Bachelors of Science degree in Accounting, Hake went on to earn his Masters of Business Administration degree from Viterbo.
“I found the Administrative Coordination position attractive as it would allow me the opportunity to work with all departments within the county, as well as the county board,” the 31-year-old Wisconsin Rapids native explains.
As Jason has settled into his new role over the past three months, he cites the most challenging aspect has been a challenge he is quite familiar with from past experience; tackling the county budget.
“Trying to balance the budget within the constraints of state levy limits, while maintaining current service levels is a challenge in itself. Not just here in Lincoln County, but statewide. We faced the very same challenges in Portage County.”
On the flip side, what Hake has found most interesting and enjoyable within the Administrative Coordinator’s office is working with the various county departments.
“I have really enjoyed meeting with department heads, learning about services and just getting familiar with how each department works. My family and I are very excited for what the future holds, and we look forward to enjoying what Lincoln County has to offer.”