News Flash

Aug. 27, 2019 - Jason Mitchell, a lifelong resident of Hampton who grew up in Riverdale and went to Hampton High School, has been named director of the city’s Public Works Department. Mitchell, 47, had been serving as interim director since July of 2018, when former director Lynn Allsbrook retired. His appointment was announced earlier this month by City Manager Mary Bunting.

Mitchell started his Public Works career as an equipment operator in 1994. Over the years he has held various jobs in the department, including wastewater operations manager, wastewater and solid waste operations manager, and department operations manager. He said his history with the department  - and the city – means that he can view Public works from both the staff perspective and the citizen perspective. “I love Hampton. I’ve been here my entire life,” Mitchell said. “The biggest thing for me is the relationships I have throughout Hampton. When someone calls me, I always try to help them.”

As he looks ahead for the department, Mitchell said one of his priorities is for Public Works to be accredited by the American Public Works Association, a non-profit with more than 30,000 members. Accreditation is designed to improve department performance and service, increase professionalism and instill pride among staff, officials and the community. Mitchell said he also wants to take an in-depth look at the entire department, including existing policies and procedures. He hopes to improve succession planning in Public Works – identifying and training men and women in the department so they are ready to move into leadership roles. And, he is looking for ways that technology can help staff identify customer concerns, make adjustments, and enhance the appearance and efficiency of the city.

To learn more about the Public Works Department and what it does, visit www.hampton.gov/publicworks .