City Council chooses Phillips as Deputy City Clerk/Office Manager

SIDNEY -- The Sidney City Council Tuesday approved Kim Phillips as Deputy Clerk. 

Interim City Manager Josh Hanson said City Clerk Lori Borchert  announced her retirement at the December 2 council meeting. Her retirement is effective March 2. 

“Upon receipt of Lori’s retirement notice, city staff posted  the  position of Deputy City Clerk on November 19, 2025. The position remained open through December 19, 2025. Upon closing the posting period, and as directed by the mayor and city council, city human resources director Autumn Ramirez and I conducted initial interviews with three qualified candidates. These interviews were held on December 29,” Hanson said. 

He said one candidate stood out above the others: Kim Phillips. 

“I’ve been with the City for going on 26 years. I started as a Utility Billing Clerk. Did I ever think I would be a payroll clerk? No. And now I get the chance to fill some gigantic shoes; first of all Geri, then Cindy, and lastly Lori who has taught me everything in that office. I have worked under her all of my years there,” Phillips said. 

She credits Borchert for getting the Deputy Clerk position. Hanson said her history in the Clerk’s office will assist her in her new position. 

“Throughout her career, and up to her promotion as bookkeeper, Kim has consistently demonstrated strong skills and extensive knowledge of her city operations, and these qualities will continue to serve the City of Sidney well within her role as Deputy City Clerk,” he said. 

Hanson said Phillips’ probationary period is not to extend past Borchert’s retirement date. With the council’s approval, Phillips would serve as Deputy City Clerk/Office Manager and at Borchert’s retirement step in as the City’s new clerk/treasurer. 

Vice-Mayor Brett Kerkman motioned to approve Phillips as Deputy Clerk/Office Manager. 

She described the appointment as “surreal.”