Rhone named new public works director

Jody Rhone has been named the new public works director for the City of Newton. Mayor Mike Hansen made the announcement during the city council meeting on Monday.

“I am very excited. I know it is going to be a challenge, but I am excited,” Rhone said. “I worked my up here.”

The possibility of becoming the director was something Rhone had thought about, but it wasn’t until the city removed the engineering requirement he knew he would qualify to lead the department.

Rhone has been with the city for almost 25 years having started in 1993. He has worked in many different capacities including as the streets superintendent, the operations superintendent and, most recently, co-interim director.

“We are excited to find someone with his experience and qualifications,” city administrator Matt Muckler said. “I think he is going to make an excellent public works director for the City of Newton.”

Rhone takes over for former director Keith Laube who left the position in July.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at
641-792-3121 ext. 6534
or jpierson@newtondailynews.com