October 18, 2022 |
The Saratoga public works director is retiring later this month.
Effective October 28th, Jon Winter will step down as the public works director for the Town of Saratoga. He submitted his letter of resignation last week. When asked why he chose now to retire, Winter said he was ready for a change.
Pictured above: Saratoga Public Works Director Jon Winter extends the “no parking” zone on the southeast corner of First and Bridge Streets in October 2021. Photo by Jim O’Reilly/Bigfoot 99.
Winter said he still intends to remain in the Valley.
Aside from the day-to-day operations of the public works department, there have been many large projects undertaken during Winter’s tenure. He mentioned some of the specific jobs he is most proud of.
By, “out here,” Winter was referring to the Spring Avenue water replacement project. A contractor hired by the town has been working to replace aging water pipes, but progress had been slower than expected.
Winter’s biggest regret is not completing the Never Forget Park. Planning was delayed when the mayor’s land deal with Dr. Janssen fell through. Redesigning the park to no longer use the area along Arrowhead Drive took longer than expected. The town received the newly drafted curb and gutter designs late last month. Winter said he was dissatisfied by how long the process has gone on.
Winter is hopeful that construction can begin sometime this fall.
The public works director said he doesn’t know who will take his place after he leaves. It’s up to the mayor and the council to pick a replacement. Winter said he hasn’t been asked for his opinion yet.
Winter’s letter of resignation will be read at the next town council meeting, tonight.
