OWENSVILLE—Derek Gruenloh officially took over the Owensville Public Works Department on Monday, replacing Jeff Fahrenholtz as director.
Gruenloh is a member of the Owensville High School …
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OWENSVILLE—Derek Gruenloh officially took over the Owensville Public Works Department on Monday, replacing Jeff Fahrenholtz as director.
Gruenloh is a member of the Owensville High School Class of 2009 and earned his Associate of Applied Science in Civil Construction Technology from State Technical College of Linn. He has been employed with the Public Works Department since December 2012, beginning as a laborer. Over the years, he has served as an equipment operator, plant manager and assistant public works director in 2022.
Gruenloh told The Republican Monday that in his new role, he aims to “keep a good crew with an exceptional morale base.”
His promotion comes as the city bids farewell to Fahrenholtz who retires after 13 years of service to the city, starting as a street laborer in July 2012, chief plan operator in 2019, assistant public works director in 2021 and his final role as director in 2022.
Fahrenholtz worked his final day for the city on Friday, just days after a proclamation in his honor was delivered by Mayor Kevin McFadden during his last official appearance as public works director at an Owensville Board of Aldermen meeting.
The proclamation recognized Fahrenholtz as an effective, instrumental and dedicated employee whose leadership would be missed. Its reading was accompanied by lighthearted banter referencing Fahrenholtz’ usual attire of plaid and an orange shirt, followed by McFadden sharing the city’s gratitude for “a job well done.”
“So when you see the city hall number pop up on your phone, I guess it won’t be answered anymore?” McFadden asked. Fahrenholtz replied with a laugh that he had a new phone and new number before assuring the board his successor would be able to reach him if necessary. When asked about his plans for retirement, he said he would be working around the farm, taking it easy and catching up on what he’s let go of for the last few years.
“When you get a chance to retire and you’ve still got some years on your hands, that’s a good thing,” McFadden said. “Enjoy your time off — you’ve earned it. You’ll leave the city well respected and we’re all most appreciative of the job you’ve done and taking care of the city.
