Municipal Water Plant Superintendent Award | Bookkeeper of the Year | City Administrator of the Year | Manager of the Year | Conger Award | Municipal Wastewater Operator of the Year | Operator of the Year | City Clerk of the Year | Friend of Rural Water | Most Improved System | Silver Faucet Award

Ron Snethen, City of Ottawa, receives Municipal Water Plant Superintendent Award

Involvement in the business of managing a facility that delivers clean, safe drinking water to a community’s residents and businesses has been a 35-year progression for Ottawa Water Plant Superintendent Ron Snethen. In 1971 he started a career with the City of Ottawa as a laborer that ascended a ladder through several positions to his appointment as water plant superintendent in 1992. He is making plans for retirement at the end of this year. “Achievement for me or the water plant would not have happened without the great staff that has worked with me over the years. Also, those accomplishments were due in no small part to the Ottawa City Administration’s support that allowed me to rise through the ranks. This faith in city employees grows a quality workforce overall and I am very appreciative,” Snethen said.

Water Plant Supervisor Ron Snethen always says what needs to be said not just what wants to be heard. He is always going to “agree to disagree,” noted a supervisor. Ron Snethen as a manager is keen to promote operator advancement and education for his staff. He is always willing and ready to be a hands-on supervisor and will break a sweat with employees when needed.

Snethen is a dedicated, loyal employee who takes great pride not only in plant employees but in the treatment of the facility and has a passion for providing the best water possible to the community. He is extremely proud of the fact there has never been a violation of any KDHE or EPA regulation during his tenure as water plant superintendent.