The City of Garden City, Kansas, recently announced the promotion of Fred Jones to the position of Public Works & Utilities Director. 

Jones has served as the City’s Water Resource Manager since 2013. He will assume his new title and responsibilities immediately, working in tandem with retiring Public Works & Utilities Director Mike Muirhead through Muirhead’s retirement (August 1, 2026).

In his new capacity, Jones will oversee a collection of departments that include electric, water, wastewater, solid waste, traffic, streets, fleet, stormwater, and water reuse.

"Fred has demonstrated exceptional leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to our community during his tenure as Water Resource Manager," said City Manager Matt Allen. "His understanding of our city's infrastructure, his strong intergovernmental relationships, and his ability to see the operations of the City through the different lenses of his professional career, make him the ideal person to lead the Public Works & Utilities team of departments into the future. I am confident he will build upon the positive momentum Mike created in this team during his tenure; delivering excellent customer service, building resiliency in the City’s core infrastructure, and being responsive to private sector partners looking to build new service or expand existing service in Garden City."

During his time as Water Resource Manager, Jones successfully spearheaded several key initiatives: modernized utility infrastructure, reducing water use by City facilities and reducing water loss system-wide, and leading a water use and aquifer recharge project that is one of the largest public works projects in the City’s history.

"I am honored to accept this new role and deeply appreciate the opportunity to continue serving the residents of Garden City," said Jones. "Our departments are full of dedicated professionals. I look forward to working alongside them in this new capacity to enhance our infrastructure, improve operational efficiencies, and support the continued growth of our community."

Prior to joining the City of Garden City staff in 2013, Jones served as City Administrator for the City of Lakin. Earlier career roles include Economic Development Director for Logan County and Assistant Police Chief for the City of Oakley.