Laura Baumgartner, who has worked in Des Moines’ city clerk’s office for the past 21 years, has been appointed city clerk by the City Council. The council made the appointment at its meeting on Monday. Baumgartner most recently was the city’s chief deputy city clerk and took on additional responsibilities following the retirement of former city clerk Paula “Kay” Cmelik, in May. Cmelik joined the city staff in fall 2019, after the retirement of longtime city clerk Diane Rauh. “We know first-hand how talented, detail-oriented, and knowledgeable Laura is,” Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie said in a prepared statement. “I’m confident her amazing team will continue to provide excellent service under her leadership.” Baumgartner will be paid $125,725 annually.