New Milwaukee DPW Interim Commissioner appointed
Karen Dettmer
MILWAUKEE - Karen Dettmer was appointed by Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett on Monday, Dec. 20 to serve as the Interim Commissioner of the Department of Public Works.
A news release says Dettmer will succeed current Commissioner Jeff Polenske effective Dec. 17 following his retirement from the department after nearly 31 years of service.
Interim Commissioner Dettmer released the following statement regarding her appointment.
"I’m honored that Mayor Barrett and incoming Mayor Cavalier Johnson have entrusted me with the great responsibility of serving as Interim Commissioner of the Department of Public Works.
"Former Commissioner Jeff Polenske assembled an exceptional leadership team that ensured efficient operations across the department and inspired our employees to do their best work. Jeff’s leadership during the Covid-19 pandemic was truly remarkable as he guided the Department of Public Works through one of the most challenging times in our history. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
"Serving as the Superintendent of the Milwaukee Water Works is extremely rewarding. Water Works employees take tremendous pride in providing our nearly 900,000 customers with safe, reliable drinking water every day. I’m excited by the opportunity to continue overseeing the division and to further the work we started in building a more equitable, inclusive, and diverse workforce."
Mayor Barrett issued the following statement on this move:
"In every job she has held in city government, Karen has exceeded expectations by demonstrating leadership and accomplishments. This is a well-earned appointment. Karen is ideally positioned to direct the Department of Public Works into the future."
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Dettmer brings nearly 15 years of collective experience at the city in increasing roles of responsibility at the Department of Public Works, Department of City Development and Milwaukee Water Works, the release says. Prior to her public service, Dettmer worked in the private sector as an engineering consultant.
This appointment was made in consultation with incoming Mayor Cavalier Johnson, the release says.
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