Michael Jacoba named Olney public works director

Michael Jacoba took on the role of Interim Public Works Director last year, after the departure of K.C. Blassingame. The City Council last month officially named Michael to the permanent post of public works director. Here’s a little information on Michael and his experience in our community: Michael started with the City in January 2011.

He got his Surface Water Treatment Operator “C” license in 2018, which is required to operate the Water Treatment for our community’s drinking water.

By 2019, Michael had completed the requirements for Surface Water Treatment Operator “B” license, giving him autonomy over the plant and promoting him to Water Superintendent.

Our water quality has never wavered by TCEQ (State) standards and remains a “Superior Drinking Water Source”.

In 2020, Michael acquired his Water Operator A License which covers not only surface water, but all water sources in the state of Texas.

In July 2022, Michael was promoted to Assistant Public Works Director with the goal of giving him the time to work directly under the PWD and absorb all there was to know about the Public Works Department.

In August 2022, Michael stepped in as Interim Public Works Director taking on the responsibility of seven departments under Public Works (Streets, Parks & Recreation, Cemetery, Community Facilities, Garage, Water Operations, and Wastewater Operations) During Michael’s six months as Interim: He built an effective team whose pride is evident in their work.

He has worked with his team to improve the maintenance of the City equipment to better serve the community.

Set the expectation that every meter in the City is to be read accurately and monthly without exception. Training and education for his team have increased to provide appropriate coverage for the City.

Michael has continuing plans for his team’s education, safety training, and efficiency. There are several projects that are underway, including, but not limited to the new water treatment plant, fire hydrants, isolation valves to protect water sources, updating lift stations, and replacing aging water and sewer lines.