SALINA — At Tuesday morning’s Saline County commissioners meeting, commissioners approved a contract with Phillip Smith-Hanes, current Ellis County administrator, to serve as the new Saline County administrator.

Smith-Hanes comes to Saline County after a career of more than 23 years that has spanned both city and county governments in two different states. He has served as a county administrator since December 2009, first in California and for the last 3-plus years in Ellis County.

Smith-Hanes will begin his duties with Saline County on Dec. 2, according to a news release from Saline County.

“Ellis County has been a wonderful experience, and I will miss the people here, but I am so excited to be joining Saline County,” says Smith-Hanes said. “Saline County has several exciting projects in the works and I look forward to being a part of this community. I am confident this is the right move for me and my family.”

Smith-Hanes grew up in Marion County and Oklahoma as well as a short stint in Cloud County and graduated from Marion High School. He has degrees from Kansas State University, Washburn University and the University of Kansas.

“Saline County is pleased with Phillip’s background and experience and we are excited to get him on board quickly. The county commissioners are looking forward to working with Phillip. He will be a great addition to our staff,” said Saline County Commission Chairman Robert Vidricksen.

Deputy County Administrator Hannah Stambaugh read a short statement from Smith-Hanes into the commission record following the commission’s vote to approve the employment contract. Smith-Hanes plans to attend the Saline County Commission meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 22, and will be available to greet county staff and members of the public.

Check Hays Post for more as details become available.