Alan Howe brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in plant operations across a variety of industries as he takes over as the director of Hattiesburg’s Water & Sewer Department.
Howe was approved for the position by the City Council at Tuesday’s special called meeting at City Hall after Mayor Toby Barker’s nomination.
Howe, a University of Southern Mississippi alumnus who is a certified industrial wastewater treatment operator, said he is excited to be taking the hob in Hattiesburg. He is the director of operations with the Pearl River County Utility Authority, where he supervises all water and sewer operations, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations and oversees infrastructure upgrades.
“My career lends itself to many of the systems that are already in place for Water and Sewer,” he said. “But it also creates opportunity for customer service delivery in a way that matches Mayor Barker’s vision for Hattiesburg.”
Barker said Howe will be an asset for his administration.
"Policies and investments around Hattiesburg's water and sewer systems will be so critical in the coming years, and Alan brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise that can guide us going forward," he said. "Furthermore, his track record in training and improving the performance and skill sets of employees will help this department make great strides in becoming more efficient and citizen-centered."
Howe will begin work Feb. 5.
Other recent appointments by Barker that have been confirmed include Ronnie Perkins as Director of Parks and Recreation, Stephen Mooney as Interim Chief of Hattiesburg Fire Department, Lamar Rutland as city engineer, Anthony Parker as police chief, Wes Curry as municipal court judge, Andrew Ellard as director of urban development, Randy Pope as city attorney, Kermas Eaton as city clerk and Ann Jones as chief administrative officer.
