Board approves Public Works realignment, creates four assistant director posts

The Board of Public Works on Sept. 1 adopted a reorganization of Public Works staffing under revised wage resolution 26-R-14 that creates four assistant director positions — utility operations, engineering, business and finance, and planning/regulatory compliance — and adds office lead roles in administrative and billing offices.

City engineer Jeff Shaffer, who presented the plan, said the reclassification will also adjust several project manager and assistant engineer pay grades to reflect responsibilities and that the net budgeted effect for 2026 is small. "this entire process actually would reduce our 2026 budget for labor by about $6,000," Shaffer said. He described the move as intended to increase continuity after recent senior-staff departures and to distribute responsibilities across more leaders.

Board members asked questions about recruiting and continuity for functions such as the aquatic biology program. A committee member asked staff to return with a progress report next year: "I would just like to request that... we get a report back from you at the beginning of next year just to say, how's it going with this new plan?" The board approved the resolution and associated exhibit updates by voice vote.