ST. PAUL – The County of St. Paul recently appointed its new Director of Public Works – a job that involves overseeing the County’s infrastructure and public works projects.
Scott Jeffery had been acting as the interim Public Works director for over a month prior to the County offering him the job. He officially started the new position on March 1, expressing his excitement about the opportunity.
“I see it as a really good opportunity for myself moving forward and setting up a career here,” he said. “Me and my family, we’ve set up shop here, so we’re not looking to go nowhere.”
Crediting staff
According to Jeffery, he takes great pride in being responsible for a department that plays such an important role in the community. “I also take great pride in knowing that we have an excellent team in place here,” he said.
“None of that is possible if you don't have those staff members to rely on, right?” he said. “We rely heavily on them to help us with our decisions and wishes that we have,” said Jeffery, explaining the success of the Public Works’ department boils down to its staff.
Jeffery said he plans to continue building relationships, trust and credibility within the organization. He explained that with trust “you can do a lot.”
Background
Jeffery has been working for the County of St. Paul for 12 years. His previous experiences include road construction for a number of years before moving to road maintenance as both a worker and a supervisor.
“I started out as a labourer/equipment operator 12 years ago, and then I was the road construction foreman after,” he said. “Basically, [I] started from the bottom and slowly progressed my way up the ladder.”
Jeffery is confident that his previous experiences within many aspects of the County’s inner workings will help him with the new role. Being “boots on the ground” and understanding multiple aspects of the County and the Public Works department from his previous experience should "definitely set me up well.”
Jeffery admits that he may be a little nervous stepping into such a big role, but he also feels excited at the same time. He looks forward to working closely with County council and administration, “and just trying to make sure everybody’s on the same page and keep the ball rolling in the right direction.”
