City hires Wellman to head public works

"Mike's been a tremendous asset to the city over the past eight months," said Gaddis. "His engineering qualifications and skills give the city a much-needed boost."

Gaddis added that the move is expected to save the city money.

"We determined that there are many engineering functions that we can perform in-house rather than contract out, which will save us money in the long run," Gaddis explained. "Mike's familiarity with the city systems gives us all an advantage."

Wellman will move into the position that has been vacant since former Public Works Director Wil Keyser retired in early March.

According to city officials, the public works director/city engineer performs a variety of administrative, professional, and technical management duties related to the enforcement of federal, state, and municipal laws pertaining to water, sewer, refuse, streets, parks, and other public facilities. The director also has the responsibility for planning, organizing, directing, supervising, and coordinating activities of the various units of the Public Works Department, and will be responsible for reviewing proposed land use considerations.

City Council member John Mayo endorsed the hiring of Wellman for the position.

"Mike's doing a great job," Mayo said.