Sue Meline has been the Clerk/Treasurer for the City of Red Cloud since 1984. After working in this role for the past 35 years, Meline recently announced her retirement. Meline's expertise and institutional knowledge has kept the City running smoothly over the years and she will be greatly missed. Meline is still working at the City office while the position transitions to the newly hired Casie Olson. We encourage you to drop by and thank Sue for her years of service to the community and congratulate her on her retirement.

What is your favorite thing about Red Cloud?

I was born in Red Cloud and have lived here all my life. I love living in a community where you know your neighbors as well as the peace and quiet.

You have been the City Clerk/Treasurer since October of 1984. What has it meant to you to be involved with the City the past 35 years?

I have had the privilege of seeing major accomplishments and what can happen when people work together for the betterment of a community. A couple of things that come to mind are Cherry Corner Estates and The Valley Child Development Center. Such big accomplishments for such a small community. And now, there's the possibility of a hotel in the downtown business district. Being the Clerk/Treasurer for me has been a small way for me to serve my hometown.

I have had the privilege of seeing major accomplishments and what can happen when people work together for the betterment of a community. A couple of things that come to mind are Cherry Corner Estates and The Valley Child Development Center.

You recently decided to retire (congratulations!) and will be training Casie Olson to take over your position. What plans do you have for retirement?

This is a tough one. On one hand, I am excited about retiring, but on the other hand I will miss working with the public--especially my co-workers. As for plans, I haven’t really given it much thought yet: maybe I’m in denial. I know I am leaving the office in good hands with Casie.

What are some of your favorite businesses to shop at in Red Cloud? Why?

I enjoy Village Pharmacy with their nice selection of items. Hometown Market is such a nice grocery store and very accommodating. Dollar General is great for their Holiday decorations. Since I am a do-it-yourself person, I frequent Kenny's Lumber. I can always count on pointers and suggestions to help me accomplish my projects

Is there anything you wish people knew about The City of Red Cloud and working with the City Council?

I would really like people to understand the City does the best they can with their limited funds and small crew. I'd like people to know that the City Council really cares about the community, after all it is their community too, and they try to do what is best but often find their hands tied with legalities that really slows the process down of accomplishing what they want to get done. It is as frustrating for them as the public. I have had the pleasure of working with a great bunch of council members over the years and I will definitely miss working with them.

Since I am a do-it-yourself person, I frequent Kenny's Lumber. I can always count on pointers and suggestions to help me accomplish my projects

If you could have a superpower what would it be and why?

I would love to take away the hate and division in our country.

Do you have any hobbies or interests you’d like to share?

I love to read and work in my yard, especially my flower gardens.

Do you have any pets?

I have had pets all my life, but after I had to have my last pet put down, I decided not to get another one.

What would your high school teachers or guidance counselor say about you if we asked?

Man, I really don’t have a clue. I don’t think they would be surprised that I have stayed with the same job for so long.

Do you have a mantra or mission statement you live by?

To live each day to its fullest. To treat people with respect and to live my life so I have no regrets.

What historical figure or celebrity would you most like to have dinner with? Why?

Maya Angelou. I have read articles about her and seen interviews. She seems like someone I would have loved to have met.

Do you have any advice for someone looking to relocate to rural Nebraska?

If you are looking for the simple, quiet life, open spaces, friendly people, there is no place like it.

I would just like to take this opportunity to thank from the bottom of my heart all the Mayors, Council members and co-workers for their support and friendships developed over the years. It has truly been my honor and privilege.

What is your favorite book?

I loved the book and movie “To Kill a Mockingbird”. So simple but yet so powerful.

Who is your favorite writer or thinker?

I really don’t have a favorite. Like I stated I love to read but I read books by all authors, no specific one.

What is your dream vacation?

I’m a simple, outdoors person so for me to sit beside a body of water in a quiet setting where I can fish and read is absolutely my perfect vacation.

What’s your favorite place to visit in Nebraska?

Mahoney State Park.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life? Explain why.

Hands down my parents. They raised me to be strong, independent, hardworking yet caring and thoughtful of others.

Is there anything else you’d like to share?

I would just like to take this opportunity to thank from the bottom of my heart all the Mayors, Council members and co-workers for their support and friendships developed over the years. It has truly been my honor and privilege.