On Thursday, the city of Columbia announced Erin Keys would step into the role of Utilities director starting on Sunday.
The announcement follows the retirement of former Utilities Director Dave Sorrell.
Keys, a long-standing city employee with nearly 30 years of experience, will earn $192,500 per year.
“Erin’s many years of experience working on various utilities will help us uphold a high level of service for our community members,” City Manager De’Carlon Seewood said.
In previous years, Keys served as acting assistant director for the electric utility, assistant director for the sewer and storm water utilities, acting engineering supervisor and engineer with the city.
Keys was appointed interim director in March.
“She’s very dedicated and passionate about the city of Columbia,” said Matt Nestor, Utilities Department public information specialist.
In a news release, Keys expressed her commitment to continue supporting staff in the work they do to provide the various utility services to customers.
“I look forward to engaging with the community to move forward with some very important infrastructure projects for the long-term sustainability of our utilities,” Keys said.
