photo by: City of Lawrence

Director of Municipal Services and Operations Dave Wagner

Longtime City of Lawrence utilities official Dave Wagner has announced plans to retire after more than four decades with the city.

Wagner, who has worked for the city for more than 41 years, will retire from his role as the director of the city’s Municipal Services and Operations Department at the end of the year, according to a city news release. As MSO director, he oversees approximately 300 employees across five areas: administration; construction management, engineering and development; field operations and inspections; environment, health, science and treatment operations; and solid waste, facilities and fleet.

Wagner said in the release that he has enjoyed serving the Lawrence community.

“It has been an honor to lead the Municipal Services & Operations Department and the employees who work tirelessly to provide Lawrence with vital services,” Wagner said.

Wagner joined the city in June 1980 and served in various roles within the Utilities Department prior to being named MSO director, including assistant utilities director from 2001 to 2007 and utilities director from 2007 to 2018. He was appointed MSO director following the merger of the city’s Public Works and Utilities departments in 2018.

City Manager Craig Owens said in the release that after four decades of service, Wagner’s legacy was well-cemented in the city and within the community. He said Wagner’s work with the Utilities Department and in overseeing the merger would continue to return benefits for years to come.

“It is with mixed emotions and sincere gratitude that we share the news of Dave’s retirement,” Owens said.

The city will conduct a national search for a new MSO director. Owens said MSO Assistant Director Melinda Harger would serve as interim department director following Wagner’s retirement.