Council discusses retitling Public Works Engineer to Public Works Director, adding safety coordinator duties

City staff presented a proposal to retitle the current Public Works Engineer position as Public Works Director, Safety Coordinator and reviewed an updated job description and organizational chart.

City Administrator Jacqueline Kelsey said the change is intended to consolidate oversight of the water, wastewater and streets departments under a single Public Works Director, clarify supervisory responsibilities and add safety coordinator oversight. The new description removes a strict requirement for a licensed engineer so the city can recruit a broader candidate pool; staff noted the current incumbent supports the transition and would move into the retitled position.

Staff also explained the safety coordinator duties would be attached to the department head role so safety responsibilities carry appropriate authority. The employee previously performing safety‑coordination duties would move to a safety‑technician role and report to the new director/coordinator.

Council members generally supported the approach; one member noted private‑sector examples where supervisors spend a portion of time on safety functions. Staff clarified no new position or added immediate line‑item cost is being created — the item is a retitling and consolidation of duties for the incumbent position.

No formal vote was taken; the item was presented for discussion and staff said they will use the updated job description as an internal guide for future recruitment and supervision.