Airway Heights' public works director search is underway

The city of Airway Heights is quickly taking steps to address its public works director situation.

Former director Kelly Williquette, who helmed the Public Works Department beginning in July 2010, left the position back in March after he found a new job. City Manager Albert Tripp currently acts as the interim-public works director. Tripp was Airway Heights’ public works director prior to becoming the city manager.

Tripp explained that the city is taking a two-phase approach to fill the vacant public works director position.

For the first phase, the city will collaborate with the Prothman Company, a Northwest based consulting firm that specializes in executive recruitment services and interim staffing, according to its website, to help hire a temporary replacement to manage the department.

“The City Council discussed this at the March 26 study session and will resume discussion at the second study session in April before voting on it at the first May meeting,” Tripp said.

Tripp explained that the temporary replacement will have a background and experience in public works and help oversee the department for the time being. Currently the Public Works Department oversees and manages the city’s streets, sewer and water system.

“We are looking for someone who can continue the continuity of the department,” Tripp said.

Once the temporary replacement is chosen, the city will look for the permanent person to fill the position. After the permanent replacement is hired, the temporary hire will transition out.

Although there is no public works director, it’s “business as usual” and city staff is focusing on maintaining the current level of services. Tripp added it could be a 2-4 month process before the city finds the department’s permanent replacement.

“We’re not rushing into making the decision,” Tripp said. “We want to make sure we have the right person for the job. We also want to give that permanent candidate enough lead time so they can give notice to their current employer.”

The city is also making modifications to the public works director’s job description. Tripp said these changes will not only state the expectations for the position, but also reflect the changes the city has gone through in the last few years, specifically the additions of the wastewater treatment facility and the Transportation Benefit District.

Tripp added that Williquette still lives in the area and could be a resource for the new director.

While the new public works director will flow with the continuity of the department, the city hopes their new candidate can bring a fresh perspective.

“We are not only looking for someone who can continue the operations of where we are now, but also let us know what we could do differently,” Tripp said. “It was a great fit with Kelly when he came on board and we are hoping to continue the same thing for the next public works director.”

Al Stover can be reached at al@cheneyfreepress.com.