The City of Crookston welcomes new Public Works Director Chuck Getsman.
Getsman, a Grand Forks native, graduated from Grand Forks Central High School before attending UND, where he received bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology, Philosophy, and Religion.
Previously, Getsman served as the Public Works Director for the city of Fisher for three years. Getsman enjoyed his position in Fisher and the challenges Public Works Departments face. “I enjoyed doing it, using the different types of machinery, everyday thinking, problem-solving,” said Getsman, “I learned there is a lot that goes into keeping a city functioning and operating properly that you wouldn’t normally see.”
When the job was offered to Getsman, he saw an opportunity to make an immediate impact on the city from his previous experiences within this field and his passion for leadership development. “This was intriguing because I felt I’d have more opportunity to use some of the skill sets I’d developed over my past careers,” said Getsman, “More leadership-directed, problem-solving.” Getsman also explained he enjoys keeping up with state statutes, policies, and procedures.
Getsman began his career as Crookston Public Works Director on September 18 and already has given staff high praise. “The staff here, from what I’ve seen, have been great,” said Getsman, “The department here seems to work very well; I don’t overthink needs to be changed, maybe little tweaks here and there.”
During Getsman’s time in Fisher, he was the only full-time public works employee, with two part-time staff alongside. Getsman said the employees in Crookston within his department have been a great help thus far.
Getsman’s upcoming goals for the Public Works Department are to develop leadership and ensure the staff fully understands maintenance throughout the city by taking courses on road construction, use of machinery, and snow removal. “One of my other goals is to create a team of leaders,” said Getsman, “People who can make decisions on their own and know what they need to do and take care of it. We then can do our jobs more efficiently, help the city grow, and be more successful.”
Getsman enjoys watching and attending UND Hockey games and Minnesota Vikings football with his family. He resides in Fisher with his wife and three daughters.
