City manager reports storm cleanup collected 323,000+ cubic yards of debris; Drew Muirhead named water director

The city manager reported the city's second brush‑removal pass is wrapping up ahead of schedule and that the post‑storm cleanup has yielded more than 323,000 cubic yards of debris, a figure the manager said exceeds the original quick estimate by more than double. He said the city will resume its normal brush program beginning April 6, with standard collection limits in place (items no longer than 8 feet and approximately 6 inches maximum accepted diameter; contractor debris is not accepted).

The manager warned residents not to place contractor debris at the curb and directed questions about specific pickups to the public works department; he said detailed schedule information is available on the city's website. He also said crews will clear chips from the four collection sites starting once the contractor finishes — the city hopes to have some sites reopened by the end of the following week, though that target depends on variables outside city control.

On roads, the manager said milling began on Gordon Petty Drive and Knox Valley Road in preparation for paving, work expected to take about seven to eight days with short, localized traffic delays. He mentioned a one‑block detour option and that Wilson Pike will have brief lane reductions and delays from 9 a.m. to noon for debris cleanup. Commissioners asked whether milling and paving could conflict with the Arbor Day library event; the manager said staff would coordinate with contractors to minimize conflict.

The manager publicly announced that Drew Muirhead will become director of water services effective April 6. Muirhead, the city's assistant director for about 10 years, is a licensed professional engineer and will replace Chris Milton, who will retire April 5 after more than 20 years with the city. The manager said he expects a seamless transition because Milton has mentored Muirhead.