City's Public Services Director Retires

Paul G. Weitzel is the Public Services Director and Building Inspector for the . He's worked for the city since 1986, when he began as a maintenance worker.

City officials recently recongnized Weitzel, who announced earlier this year his intentions to retire. His last formal day with the city is today, June 30.

Weitzel's announcement left many of the council members surprised earlier this year but they've repeatedly expressed their appreciation for his work and dedication to the city during subsequent meetings.

He was often seen around town working on projects, such as hanging wreaths during the holidays, plowing away snow, working on the streets and more.

According to a resolution read by Mayor Dale Scrace during the meeting earlier this month, Weitzel even helped during elections by greeting voters, working on an election machine and delivering election results to downtown Detroit to the Wayne County officials.

Although he is retiring, Weitzel will remain a familiar face among city officials.

In May, the city council approved a contract with Weitzel for building inspection services--a job he has been performing for some time. He will be performing the duties as an independent contractor.

Weitzel's retirement came at a time when many of the services normally handled by his department are being researched for outsourcing to determine whether using indenpendent contractors will save the city money. The City is not alone in seeking such savings--likely a result of the ever-tightening budgets confronting many municipalities throughout Michigan.