Faces of the City June 2026: Sara Hugall

June 3, 2026

Faces of the City

A monthly feature that highlights the dedicated people who help keep our city running. Get to know who they are, what they do, and the paths that brought them here—putting a face to the city you live, work, and play in.

June 2026 — Sara Hugall

A smiling person in a black jacket stands in a modern, bright lobby with plush blue sofas, abstract art, and soft lighting, conveying a welcoming tone.

This month, we are spotlighting Sara Hugall, the Treasury Services Supervisor within the city’s Treasury Department. Over her four years with the city, Sara has turned her lifelong passion for precision into a vital service for our community, overseeing the day-to-day operations and staff of the department under the direction of the City Treasurer.

Two women are counting cash at an office desk. One is seated holding money, and the other is standing, placing bills in a drawer. Two monitors and office supplies are on the desk. The scene conveys a business or financial setting.

Sara’s role is central to managing the city’s essential utility infrastructure and financial touchpoints. She meticulously monitors water and sewer usage, managing the distribution of more than 14,000 utility bills each month. Beyond the numbers, Sara serves as a key bridge to the public, working closely with residents to resolve complex customer service issues involving utility billing, payments, and delinquent balances with care and clarity.

Two women at a desk, one seated and one standing, focused on a computer screen with spreadsheets. The atmosphere is collaborative and professional.

Her professional journey is a testament to following her true calling. Sara’s love for finance started early. One of her favorite childhood memories is counting rolls of pennies with her grandmother to buy penny candy. While initially studying for a career in the medical field at Muskegon Community College, she realized accounting was her true home. She transferred to Baker College, earning her MBA with an Accounting/Management focus, and spent 16 years lending her expertise to their Business Office. Before finding her perfect fit in Treasury, Sara also spent two years serving our community in the City’s Building and Inspections Department, making her a versatile asset to the city.

A woman with a ponytail sits at an office desk, focused on her computer. The desk is decorated with colorful artwork and personal items, creating a lively atmosphere.

Sara has been with her high school sweetheart for 25 years and lived within the city for 14 years. Her husband also serves the city in the Parks Department, and together they share two children, Allianna (12) and Alexander (8). In the summer, they can usually be found riding bikes, swimming, and enjoying dinners by beautiful Lake Michigan. Sara also gives back locally by serving as the Treasurer for her son’s elementary school PTO. When she catches a quiet moment, she is a huge 80s and 90s movie buff, always on the lookout for hidden cinematic gems from that era or sharing the classics she grew up loving with her kids.