The City of Salem has a new Public Works Director. Travis Sanders of rural Kell spent his first day on the job Monday.
Interim City Manager Annette Sola says Sanders was one of 18 to apply for the job.
“Travis comes to us with a great deal of knowledge in infrastructure. He’s been a previous Road Commissioner, done water and sewer line replacements in his previous business, he has some engineering experience in his last job. So he brings a great deal of knowledge. Several of the guys have worked with him in the past and we are super excited to have him.”
Sanders is looking forward to his new role.
“Thought it was a good fit for me and the city at this time. I thought I would be a good asset for the city.”
Sanders was the former owner of Tri-S Excavating in Odin.
Sola says Sanders will be overseeing a large number of public works projects planned for this summer.
With the selection of the Public Works Director now made, Mayor Nic Farley says he’s not yet ready to launch the search for a new city manager.
“I want to give him a fair shot to be able to work with her as the City Manager, and look at her guidance and leadership to help guide him before we start the process. So I anticipate we will get through the summer and then start the process.”
While Sola currently has a contract as interim city manager until the end of this year, she doesn’t anticipate stepping down until at least July first of next year.
