COEUR d'ALENE - It's the next step in what has turned out to be many steps for Coeur d'Alene Project Coordinator Renata McLeod.

McLeod, who first began working for the city 23 years ago as a 16-year-old part-time receptionist, is expected to be promoted to the Coeur d'Alene city clerk position next year.

"I'm excited," said McLeod, of the promotion that became available when City Clerk Susan Weathers announced she would retire in January. "I've just kind of grown in the city."

As project coordinator, McLeod manages Housing and Urban Development money that the city receives, and has been involved in a number of affordable housing projects. While she started with the city working part-time afternoons after high school class let out, she has worked up to a senior legal secretary as well as an assistant planner. She earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from Lewis-Clark State College and an executive master of business administration degree in 2010 from the University of Idaho.

Mayor Sandi Bloem is expected to recommend McLeod as the next city clerk during the City Council meeting at 6 tonight in the Coeur d'Alene Public Library Community Room.

Weathers will retire in January after 25 years with the city.

"Susan's shoes will be hard to fill, but I think Renata will do an excellent job," said Bloem, citing McLeod's experience in various departments as good preparation for the new job.

With the promotion, McLeod's salary would increase to $82,236 from $74,760, according to the city's human resource department.

Her current position will be evaluated by the city after it becomes vacated to determine if it should be filled, absorbed by staff or left open.

The council is expected to vote on Bloem's recommendation tonight.