Stickney to retire as head of Ludington DPW

Joe Stickney has led the Ludington DPW for the last 10 years.

Stickney to retire as head of Ludington DPW

By Rob Alway, Editor-in-Chief

LUDINGTON — Joe Stickney has served as the City of Ludington’s superintendent of Department of Public Works for the last 10 years. Recently, he announced that he will be retiring, effective Feb. 24, 2024. 

Stickney, a 1987 graduate of Mason County Eastern, began working with the city in 2006. “I spent 20 years working on the road, traveling all over the country and to Mexico for work,” he said. “Then one day my wife, Shannon, told me that the City of Ludington was hiring. I began in utility maintenance, checking water meters, and related areas. I eventually became the leader of that department. When Joe Tiabl retired as DPW crew leader in January 2013, Stickney was appointed to that position. In December 2013, when Shawn McDonald retired as supervisor of DPW/Motor Pool/Cemetery & Parks, Stickney was promoted to that job (the position is called superintendent of the DPW). He also recently became supervisor of Utility Maintenance. 

Stickney oversees 22 employees. 

“It’s been a great job,” Stickney said. “The City of Ludington is a great place to work. It’s been nice to be part of the progress here in the city. We have a great group of employees in the various departments, both in the DPW and at city hall. The city council has been very supportive of what we do as well.” 

“Joe and his crew are always willing to go the extra mile,” City Manager Mitch Foster said. “They take pride in what they do and a lot of that is reflective of Joe’s leadership.” 

Stickney said he hasn’t made many major changes from his predecessors. 

“It’s just a matter of being good stewards to the taxpayers’ money,” Stickney said. “We are the department that is in the background that makes sure that things work. The people who live, work and visit Ludington rely on us and we are proud of what we do.” 

Stickney said while he enjoys the job, it’s time to do something different. 

“I figured I was still in good health and I qualify for retirement,” Stickney said. “I will be turning 55 and have been here for over 15 years. I’ve really enjoyed my time at the city but it’s time to do something else.” 

In addition to working for the City of Ludington, Stickney serves as a captain on the Custer Fire Department (he has served on the fire department for 28 years) and as a trustee on the Eden Township board of trustees. Joe has one adult stepson and four grandchildren. He said he plans on devoting more time to being grandpa after he retires. 

The city is currently accepting applications for Stickney’s replacement. 

See more information here.