Water board hires replacement for outgoing GM

ZoomBookmarkSharePrintListenTranslate

The Anniston Water Works and Sewer Board on Friday announced a successor to general manager Jim Miller, who will retire in July.

The board on Tuesday voted unanimously to hire Ed Turner, currently the utility’s manager of customer and information services. Turner, 48, has worked with the water board for 14 years.

“Ed Turner brings a set of unique skills to the job of general manager,” said board chairman Jimmy O’Dell in a press release. “We are confident those skills will lead us forward in the 21st century.”

Turner said he is honored by the appointment and knows following Miller will be a tremendous job.

“I’m excited,” he said, “and excited about the challenge.”

Miller, who spent 17 years as general manager, announced his retirement in January. However, he said, he will stay on at the utility to complete major projects like a water main extension to Honda Manufacturing in Lincoln.

“I look forward to working with Ed in the transition to new leadership for our water and sewer system,” Miller said in the press release. “Ed is well suited for the challenges water and sewer utilities face today.”

Miller said he brought Turner on to the utility 14 years ago and is happy with the board’s decision to hire him.

“It’s always gratifying to me when we can promote from within,” Miller said.

Both Miller and Turner said the biggest issue facing the board in the coming years will be dealing with more government regulations and keeping those mandates from affecting the price their customers pay.

During its meeting Tuesday, the board also promoted Delmer Ferguson to the position of assistant general manager. Ferguson, a 26-year employee, now serves as the controller for the board.