Del City streets supervisor rebuts online smear, discloses past work with mayor

Michael Unruh, who identified himself as Del City's streets and drainage supervisor, used his public‑comment time at the Nov. 17 council meeting to dispute what he called "a smear campaign" circulating on social media and to provide context about his past. "My name is Michael Unruh," he said, and later described the online posts as "presenting [facts] in ways that insinuate misconduct by either myself or members of Del City governance." He said he worked for Eason Enterprises LLC for more than 12 years before leaving on Dec. 31, 2024, and then was hired by the city on June 16, 2025.

Unruh also disclosed an arrest tied to a long addiction and said he has been in recovery for more than a decade. "I regret that addiction, and I regret how deep and dark it took my life," he said, adding that he has been clean and sober and now meets weekly with a counselor and sponsor. He described his work for the city — road repairs, railroad crossing replacement, a restriping campaign and a citywide drainage canal cleaning project — and asked for the opportunity to tell his side to residents.

Mayor Floyd Eason, fellow councilmembers and staff responded with public expressions of support after Unruh finished. Mayor Eason called him "an honorable man" and councilmembers thanked him for his service. The comments closed with council leaders emphasizing appreciation for city employees and reiterating that the city has posted related information and answers on its website.

The council did not take any formal personnel action during the public‑comment period; Unruh's remarks were recorded and will remain part of the meeting minutes. The council also discussed broader communication plans and directed staff to post materials in the city's frequently asked questions section so residents can review supporting documentation.