Longtime Manchester Road Superintendent Jeff Williams to Retire

BENNINGTON, Vt. NewsWK — Residents of Bennington and surrounding communities will soon bid farewell to a familiar face in local public works. Jeff Williams, the superintendent of the Manchester Department of Public Works, is set to retire on July 17 after an impressive 49 years of service. His departure marks the end of an era for the town as he transitions to a future filled with more leisure activities like hunting, fishing, and traveling.

Williams began his career at the Highway Department in 1977 after a stint at the Vermont Marble Company. He quickly became a vital part of the department, becoming foreman in 1981 and later the superintendent when the department was restructured in 2008. During his tenure, he has overseen not only road maintenance but also additional responsibilities, including managing facilities such as the Dana Thompson Rec Park and the Factory Point Cemetery.

Legacy of Service

Reflecting on his nearly five decades of service, Williams expressed gratitude for the community and his colleagues, stating, “I’ve had a lot of fun with this job… It’s been a great town to work for.” His commitment to the town was evident as he often took on the role of “working supervisor,” actively participating in snowplowing and maintenance tasks even as his administrative duties expanded.

Challenges and Changes

Throughout his career, Williams faced numerous challenges, including severe weather events like Tropical Storm Irene and the memorable snowstorm of October 1987, which left a lasting impression on him. He noted that recent years have seen rising costs for supplies, making it increasingly difficult for departments to manage budgets effectively.

As Williams prepares to step down, Justin Olansky, who has served as the public works superintendent in Williamstown, Massachusetts, has been appointed as his successor. Town Manager Scott Murphy emphasized the significance of Williams’ contributions, stating that his extensive local knowledge and dedication will be missed.

Looking Ahead

For the residents of Bennington County and neighboring areas, the retirement of Jeff Williams represents a significant change in local governance. His commitment to the community has shaped the public works department into what it is today. Williams has assured local officials that he will remain available for consultation, easing the transition for his successor. As the community moves forward, it will be essential to uphold the standards of service and dedication that Williams exemplified during his long career.