FAIRBURY - Collin Bielser has, for most of his life, been a Kansas man. Grew up in Colby, went to KU, and had jobs in Eudora and Baldwin City before coming to Fairbury, Nebraska as city administrator in July 2015.

"One thing that was really nice about Fairbury is that (people) were really welcoming to me and my family," he said. "Just...really great people."

This past October, Bielser submitted his resignation to the city council. He’s accepted the position of assistant city manager in Hays, Kansas. A city that’s not only five times the size of Fairbury, but much closer to both he and his wife Hali’s families.

"Reached out to some former employees, people I know there and heard a lot of good things," Bielser said. "I thought it'd be a good opportunity for my family and me, now that I have (a one-year old son named Reeve). We'll get closer to both of our families."

Bielser has helped lead a number of projects in Fairbury during his tenure. A 2016 citizen survey noted that Fairbury residents’ top priorities were a new pool, a newly paved H Street and the abatement of unsafe structures.

Not only did these projects get done, but Bielser also helped Fairbury get back on solid financial footing. Fairbury's electric utility was in the red when Bielser arrived, but has been in the black for more than three years.

"Quality of life issues kind of take a back seat to public safety and infrastructure," Bielser said, "but, I think we've built a cash position where we're able to do more of those quality of life issues, because we've done such a good job managing those other parts of the town."

Bielser was also key in helping lead Crystal Springs Park improvements, water system upgrades and has worked to secure grants from the state for downtown revitalization.

Homer Ward has worked side-by-side with Bielser for the last 4.5 years. At age 87, Fairbury’s mayor has seen the most progress in the city during Bielser’s time as administrator.

"(Collin's) contributions to the city of Fairbury are absolutely phenomenal," Ward said. "He has done more, in my opinion, for the city for the past four years than I can ever remember being done, and I've lived here for 65 years.

Bielser described Ward, and his wife, Maxine, as "grandparent figures" for his young son, Reeve.

"Those are two people (me and Hali) will stay in very close contact with," Bielser smiled.

Project manager Mary Renn has been named interim city administrator. Bielser hopes his spot will be filled permanently by early summer. The decision to leave Fairbury was not easy for Bielser. It’s the first place that truly felt like home for he and his family.

But during many planned future visits, Bielser looks forward to seeing his surrogate hometown grow.

"We're really going to miss Fairbury," he admitted. "It's been a really good time. Mayor Ward and the (city) council gave me an opportunity. This was my first position as city administrator, and I can't thank them enough, and the town and people, who have been so great to us."

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @Tommy_NCN.