MADRAS CITY COUNCIL APPOINTS NEW PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR

Date:  July 27, 2022 – Immediate Release
Contacts:  Charo Miller, HR & Administrative Director 541-325-0312

Madras, OR – At their regularly scheduled meeting last night, the Madras City Council appointed Michael Whitfield to fill the Public Works Director position vacated by the resignation of Jeff Hurd back in December 2021. “Jeff Hurd filled in as Interim Public Works Director during our search for a replacement which was critical in keeping all our summer projects moving forward,” stated City Administrator Gus Burril. “In fact, there were several staffing changes within the Public Works department this year and the entire team has pulled together to keep day-to-day operations running smoothly, as well as keeping several major projects on track.” 

“We received interest from many qualified applicants from all over the United States,” stated HR & Administrative Director Charo Miller, “but it was imperative for the City and for our citizens that we hire someone who not only had the education and skills, but had vision and passion for a small, but growing community.” The Public Works Director provides long-term planning and day-to-day oversight of operations and personnel for parks, streets and utilities while working hand-in-hand with community development. And the City has been very busy with several large infrastructure projects and a very aggressive housing plan that has activated the development of approximately 800+ new units since it’s implementation.

City Administrator Burril added, “In addition to several years experience as the Assistant Public Works Director for Columbia County and Public Works Director for the City of Falls Church, Virginia. Michael has a Civil Engineering degree which will be incredibly useful on infrastructure projects and when working with developers. Having experience in a municipal environment, he understands the process of government and how our funding can be utilized. The interview team was impressed with his background and believes he’ll be a substantial contributor to an already great Public Works department.” Mr. Whitfield also has experience working independently as a Senior Project Engineer, Construction Manager and a Regional Leader for Construction Management Services. 

“Michael’s official start date with the City is August 1st, but he and his wife Erma, have already begun integrating into our community,” stated Mayor Richard Ladeby. The community can meet Michael on August 4th for the 1st Thursday event Downtown at the City of Madras’ information booth. 

Mr. Whitfield has a Master of Science in Business Administration (MBA), a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BS) and multiple certifications including Certified Construction Manager (CCM), FDEP – Qualified Stormwater Management Inspector, FDOT Certified in Advanced Maintenance of Traffic, NDDOT Certified Asphalt Inspector & Traffic Control Supervisor. He has 15 years experience in Public Works and 26 years experience in the private sector.